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Traditional Okra Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty and nutritious meal thatโs easy to prepare. This lighter take on a beloved classic highlights the natural thickening properties of okra while blending it with fresh tomatoes, lime juice, and aromatic vegetables for a flavorful bowl. At just 1 WW point per serving, itโs a healthy option packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and wholesome goodness. Perfect for meal prep, this soup freezes beautifully, making it a convenient choice for busy days. Whether youโre a long-time okra fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of home-cooked tradition.
Get the Recipe Here: Traditional Okra Soup
Ingredients of Traditional Okra Soup: A Taste of Home-Cooked Goodness
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For Traditional Okra Soup, gather 1 tsp of olive oil for sautรฉing, along with 1 medium diced onion (about 1 cup, 150 g) and 2 cloves of minced garlic for a flavorful base. Add 1 tbsp of grated fresh ginger, 2 medium diced carrots (1 cup, 120 g), and 2 medium diced tomatoes (1 cup, 150 g) for a hearty vegetable medley. Stir in 1 diced green bell pepper (1 cup, 150 g) and 2 cups of sliced okra (200 g) for the signature texture. Enhance the broth with 4 cups of chicken stock (960 ml), 2 tbsp of tomato paste (30 g), and the juice of 1 lime for brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a comforting, home-cooked dish packed with vibrant flavors.
Heat the Oil
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In a large pot, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning due to the small amount of oil used.
Sautรฉ the Aromatics
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Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir occasionally. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables
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Toss in diced carrots and green bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.
Incorporate the Okra
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Add sliced okra and tomatoes, stirring gently. Cook for 3-4 minutes, letting the okra thicken the soup, but avoid over-stirring to prevent excess sliminess. Pour in the chicken broth and add tomato paste. Stir until the paste dissolves, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the okra to soften.
Season and Finish
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Before serving, squeeze in lime juice for a tangy, bright note.
Serve
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Ladle into bowls, garnish with additional lime wedges or fresh herbs like parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Substitutions and Variations
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For a flavorful twist, consider adding seafood such as shrimp, crab meat, or white fish towards the end of cooking, which complements the traditional African okra soup beautifully. For a vegan-friendly version, boost the heartiness with lentils or corn kernels, or add chunks of sweet potato or butternut squash for a touch of natural sweetness and extra texture.
Tips and Tricks for Making Okra Soup
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When making Okra Soup, be sure to sautรฉ your aromatics well, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop a slight caramelization before adding liquids. This soup is also perfect for meal prep, as it freezes and reheats beautifullyโjust let it cool completely before freezing for the best texture. Rinse the okra thoroughly before chopping, and slice it thinly to ensure even cooking and the right amount of thickening. Lastly, donโt skip adding lime juice at the end of cooking, as it brightens and balances the flavors perfectly.
Get the Recipe Here: Traditional Okra Soup
