Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra is a delightful dish that can be served as a side or a light main course. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. The balance of flavors ensures that each bite is satisfying, while the vibrant colors and textures make it as pleasing to look at as it is to eat.
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WHAT IS OKRA?
Okra, also known as “lady’s finger” or “gumbo,” is a flowering plant in the mallow family (Malvaceae). It is valued for its edible green seed pods, which are a popular ingredient in various cuisines around the world. Okra is a versatile, nutritious vegetable that is valued for its unique texture and mild flavor. Its ability to enhance the thickness of soups and stews, along with its health benefits, makes it a popular choice in various culinary traditions around the world.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPES?
You will love this Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra recipe for its ease of preparation, nutritious profile, delicious flavor, versatility, and appealing presentation. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy okra in a new and exciting way.
- Simple and Quick Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The okra is quickly steamed and then tossed in a flavorful glaze, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Okra is packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making this dish a nutritious choice. The minimal use of oil and the inclusion of wholesome ingredients like garlic and sesame seeds add to the health benefits without compromising on taste.
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, honey, and sesame oil creates a rich, savory glaze that perfectly complements the mild flavor of the okra. The balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors ensures a satisfying and mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Side Dish: This garlic soy glazed steamed okra can be served alongside a variety of main courses. It pairs well with rice, noodles, grilled meats, and seafood, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
- Unique Texture: Steaming the okra keeps it tender yet slightly crisp, avoiding the sliminess that can occur with other cooking methods. The glaze adds a delightful sticky coating that enhances the overall texture of the dish.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant green of the okra, combined with the glossy dark glaze and optional garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions, makes for a visually appealing dish that is sure to impress guests.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of chili flakes for heat, use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness, or include oyster sauce for extra depth.
- Great for Entertaining: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and quickly reheated, making it an excellent option for entertaining. Its unique flavors and attractive presentation are sure to be a hit at any dinner party or gathering.
- Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly: Okra is often inexpensive and readily available in many markets. This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, okra is a sustainable crop that requires fewer resources to grow.
INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES
Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
- Garlic: Garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, known for its pungent, savory flavor. It adds depth and aromatic quality to the dish. If fresh garlic is not available, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or 2 tablespoons of minced garlic from a jar as a substitute. Another option is garlic paste, using about 1 teaspoon per clove.
- Oil: Oil is used for cooking the garlic and for the base of the glaze, adding richness and helping to distribute flavors evenly. You can use any neutral cooking oil such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or avocado oil. If you prefer a different flavor, olive oil or sesame oil can be used, though they may slightly alter the taste profile.
- Light Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce is a key ingredient in Asian cooking, providing a salty, umami flavor to the dish. It is lighter in color and saltier than dark soy sauce. If you don’t have light soy sauce, you can use regular soy sauce. For a lower sodium option, choose a reduced-sodium soy sauce. Tamari can also be used as a gluten-free alternative.
- Oyster Sauce: Oyster sauce adds a rich, savory, slightly sweet umami flavor to the dish. It is thicker and darker than soy sauce. If you need a substitute, you can use hoisin sauce, though it is sweeter and less salty. Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to mimic the sweetness and saltiness. For a vegetarian alternative, use mushroom sauce.
- Sugar: Sugar balances the salty and umami flavors with a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. You can use honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup as a natural sweetener alternative. If you prefer a lower glycemic index, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia can be used.
- Water: Water is used to steam the okra and may be part of the glaze mixture, diluting the sauce to the desired consistency. In most recipes, water can be substituted with vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. However, for steaming purposes, water is ideal.
- Okra, Cut Off the Top: Okra is the main vegetable in this dish, known for its tender texture and ability to absorb flavors. Cutting off the top ensures the pods are clean and ready for cooking. If okra is not available, green beans, zucchini, or asparagus can be used. These vegetables will provide a different texture but can still work well with the garlic soy glaze.
- Fried Garlic for Topping: Fried garlic adds a crunchy texture and an extra layer of garlicky flavor as a finishing touch. If you don’t have fried garlic, you can use toasted sesame seeds for a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Crispy shallots or fried onions can also be used as an alternative topping.
In summary, this dish combines the distinct flavors and textures of each ingredient, but there are flexible substitutes available if needed. These substitutes can help maintain the integrity and deliciousness of the dish while accommodating different dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
RECIPES TIPS
- Choose Fresh Okra: Look for small to medium-sized okra pods that are bright green and firm. Avoid okra that is large, dull in color, or feels soft and mushy, as these can be tough and fibrous.
- Trim the Okra Properly: When trimming the okra, just cut off the very tip of the stem, leaving the pods whole. Cutting too much can expose the seeds and increase the sliminess.
- Steaming Technique: Ensure the okra is evenly spaced in the steamer basket to allow uniform cooking. Steam only until the okra is tender but still vibrant green, about 5-7 minutes, to avoid overcooking which can make it mushy.
- Prevent Sliminess: If you’re concerned about the sliminess, you can lightly dry the steamed okra with paper towels before adding it to the skillet. Cooking the okra quickly at a high temperature can also help reduce sliminess.
- Garlic Cooking Tips: Cook the minced garlic over medium heat to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and overpower the dish. Cook until just golden and fragrant.
- Balancing the Sauce: Taste the soy sauce mixture before adding it to the skillet. If it’s too salty, you can add a bit more water or a splash of rice vinegar to balance it out. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more honey or sugar if needed.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel ree to add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat in your dish. Freshly grated ginger can also add a nice zing to the glaze.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. It can also be a side dish to grilled meats, tofu, or fish for a balanced meal.
- Garnish Creatively: Besides fried garlic, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added freshness and crunch.
- Make Ahead: You can steam the okra in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, quickly reheat the okra in the garlic soy glaze.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Full recipes and Thermomix® instructions please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
- Prepare the Okra: Trim the stems of the okra but leave the pods whole. If the okra is large, you may want to cut them in half lengthwise.
- Steam the Okra: Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water and add the okra. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, until the okra is tender but still bright green. Remove the okra from the steamer and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, water, and honey/maple syrup.
- Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine and Glaze: Pour the soy sauce mixture into the skillet with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the steamed okra to the skillet and gently toss to coat the okra in the sauce. Drizzle with sesame oil and cook for another minute, ensuring the okra is well-glazed and heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the garlic soy glazed okra to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course.
WHAT ELSE TO SERVE WITH ?
This flavorful and vibrant dish can be complemented with a variety of sides and main courses to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy steamed jasmine rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the flavorful sauce of the okra.
- Garlic Noodles: Simple yet savory garlic noodles offer a delicious carbohydrate option that complements the umami glaze.
- Grilled Chicken: Lightly marinated grilled chicken breast or thighs add a hearty protein component to your meal.
- Teriyaki Salmon: Sweet and savory teriyaki salmon pairs well with the garlic soy glaze, enhancing the umami flavors.
- Crispy Tofu: Pan-fried or baked tofu offers a vegetarian protein option with a satisfying crunch and a mild flavor that complements the dish.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing adds a cool and crunchy texture to the meal.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds a healthy, green vegetable side with a mild flavor that pairs well with the glazed okra.
- Miso Soup: A light and umami-rich miso soup provides a warm, comforting start to the meal.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls filled with vegetables and shrimp or chicken add a crunchy and flavorful appetizer.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offer a simple and healthy starter.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing provides a refreshing and colorful side dish.
MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS
Preparing the Okra:
- Wash and Trim: Wash the okra thoroughly and trim off the tops. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Steam the Okra: Steam the okra as per the recipe instructions (5-7 minutes until tender but still bright green). Once steamed, let the okra cool to room temperature.
- Store the Okra: Place the cooled, steamed okra in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Preparing the Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, water, and honey/maple syrup in a bowl. Store the sauce in a small airtight container or jar.
- Prepare the Garlic: Mince the garlic and store it in a separate airtight container or jar. If you prefer, you can lightly sauté the minced garlic in oil until just fragrant and store it separately.
Final Assembly:
- Reheat the Okra: When ready to serve, reheat the steamed okra by microwaving for 1-2 minutes or by quickly steaming again for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (if not pre-cooked) and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the pre-mixed sauce and bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Glaze: Add the reheated okra to the skillet. Toss the okra in the sauce until well-coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with sesame oil and cook for an additional minute.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the glazed okra to a serving dish. Garnish with fried garlic, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions if desired.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can prepare most of the components in advance and quickly assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve, saving time and ensuring a fresh, delicious meal.
STORAGE & REHEATING
Storage:
- Refrigeration:
- Place any leftover Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing (Optional):
- While okra can be frozen, its texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Consume within 1-2 months for the best quality.
Reheating:
- Microwave Method:
- Transfer the desired portion of the chilled okra to a microwave-safe dish.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
- Keep an eye on the dish to prevent overheating, as okra can become mushy if microwaved for too long.
- Stovetop Method:
- For larger quantities or if you prefer stovetop reheating, use a skillet or frying pan.
- Heat a small amount of oil or water in the skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chilled okra and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Steamer Method:
- If you have a steamer basket or steamer insert, this is another excellent way to reheat the okra while maintaining its texture.
- Bring water to a boil in the pot and place the steamer basket over it.
- Add the chilled okra to the basket and cover with a lid.
- Steam for 3-5 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
Serving:
- Once reheated, transfer the Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional toppings such as fried garlic, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or part of a meal.
By following these storage and reheating instructions, you can preserve the flavor and texture of the okra dish and enjoy it again with minimal effort.
RECIPES FAQS
Recipes FAQs for Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra
Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen okra if fresh is not available. However, keep in mind that frozen okra may have a slightly different texture once cooked compared to fresh okra. Thaw the frozen okra before steaming or cooking.
How can I reduce the sliminess of okra?
To reduce the sliminess of okra, make sure not to overcook it. Steaming or quick stir-frying can help minimize sliminess. Additionally, patting the okra dry with paper towels before cooking can also help.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the okra and sauce components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the okra and sauce in a skillet and combine just before serving.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to taste. Start with the amount specified in the recipe and adjust according to your preference.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Can I use dark soy sauce instead of light soy sauce?
Dark soy sauce has a stronger flavor and is thicker and darker than light soy sauce. While you can use dark soy sauce as a substitute, it will alter the flavor and color of the dish slightly.
How long will the leftovers keep?
Leftover Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving and consume within this timeframe for the best quality.
Can I freeze this dish?
While okra can be frozen, its texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze the dish, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I omit the oyster sauce?
Yes, you can omit the oyster sauce if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions. The dish will still be flavorful with just the soy sauce and other seasonings.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring any other ingredients used are gluten-free certified. Additionally, omit the oyster sauce or use a gluten-free alternative.
Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?
You can adjust the recipe by clicking the serving size in the recipe in recipes card to your liking!
If you can find the exact portion that you like, you can, also, adjust this in manual mode. Make sure that the cooking times and temperatures have been adjusted for different quantities of ingredients. Even preparation time (such as for cutting) may be different than in the original recipe. Please do not pass the max line indicated inside of the mixing bowl. The capacity of the mixing bowl is 2.2 liters.
This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?
This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6
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Thermomix® TM6RM7,488.00
RECIPES VIDEO
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RECIPES CARD
Garlic Soy Glazed Steamed Okra
Garlic Okra Steamed in Soy Sauce Glaze is a savory and aromatic dish that combines the fresh flavors of okra with the rich umami of soy sauce and the bold kick of garlic. Tender okra pieces are delicately steamed to preserve their natural texture and vibrant color. Meanwhile, a fragrant glaze made from soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings infuses the dish with depth and complexity. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, where the subtle sweetness of the okra perfectly complements the savory notes of the soy sauce glaze. This dish is both satisfying and nutritious, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Place garlic and oil into Thermomix® mixing bowl. Chop for 5 sec | Speed 5. then sauté for 3 min | 120°C | ⤺ Speed 1.
Add light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and 30g water. Mix for 10 sec | Speed 3 then pour into a bowl and set aside.
Place 500g water into the mixing bowl. Set up the steamer tray and place the plate with okra into the Varoma tray, ensuring the ventilation holes are clear. Cover the steamer tray with its Varoma lid and steam for 18 min | Varoma | Speed 1.
Carefully remove the plate with the steamed okra. Drizzle with the reserved sauce, top with fried garlic, and serve immediately.
Ingredients
Directions
Place garlic and oil into Thermomix® mixing bowl. Chop for 5 sec | Speed 5. then sauté for 3 min | 120°C | ⤺ Speed 1.
Add light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and 30g water. Mix for 10 sec | Speed 3 then pour into a bowl and set aside.
Place 500g water into the mixing bowl. Set up the steamer tray and place the plate with okra into the Varoma tray, ensuring the ventilation holes are clear. Cover the steamer tray with its Varoma lid and steam for 18 min | Varoma | Speed 1.
Carefully remove the plate with the steamed okra. Drizzle with the reserved sauce, top with fried garlic, and serve immediately.
