What’s In Your Share This Week?
Okra can be a tough sell for some folks. Some people get hung up on the slime and others get stuck on how to prepare it.
If you can get past the slime okra is actually really good for you.
Besides the fact that it can be cooked in many ways, okra’s nutritional value is good enough to give it a chance. A cup of okra contains significant amounts of vitamins A and C, as well as Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium. Not only does it contain dietary fiber, the type of fiber it contains can help stabilize blood sugar.
And that slime? It coats the intestines with a natural lubricant that can relieve constipation and other gastrointestinal problems.
Here are some tips for preparing okra that reduce the slime factor:
- Keep the pods whole
- Use acids–lemon juice, tomatoes, vinegar, etc.
- Cook on high heat
- Slice and soak in ice water before using
- Embrace it by throwing it in a stew as a thickening agent!
For best results, store your okra in a bag in the fridge and do not wash the pods until you’re ready to eat them.
Looking for recipes to use your Market Share ingredients? Check out these links below:
Don’t let that okra scare you off! Get your crunch on with some Spicy Pickled Okra
Or, whip up a hearty batch of Stewed Tomatoes and Okra with Fried Egg on top
Roast or grill eggplant to create a Simple Baba Ganoush that is sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Want to continue the FoodPrints Fun at home? Get the whole family involved with a 5 senses activity that allows you to explore your kitchen in new ways:
What do apple slices or carrot sticks (or any fruit or vegetable you have on hand) taste, smell, look, feel, and sound like?
Use the produce from your Market Share and see what your 5 senses can tell you about each item.
And, if videos are more your style, let our 5 Senses video guide you through the activity!
