Bamia (Okra Stew)

Ingredients

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Fresh okra (1 pound, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Tomatoes (4 medium, diced)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Vegetable broth (4 cups)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the okra and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
6. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.
7. Serve the Bamia hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.