Bamieh - Middle Eastern Okra Stew

Ingredients

• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Vegetable broth (4 cups)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Tomatoes (2 large, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 large, chopped)
• Okra (1 lb, trimmed and halved)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Allow the mixture to cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Add the okra to the pot. Stir gently, ensuring all the okra pieces are coated in the tomato and spice mixture.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the okra becomes tender.
8. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
10. Serve your delicious Bamieh stew hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!