Steamed Okra
This simple, 10-minute steamed okra recipe is healthy, versatile, and kid-friendly. Perfect as a summer side dish, it pairs well with any main!
Servings: 4
Calories: 37kcal
Equipment
- Pot with Steamer Basket (or just a pot if boiling)
Ingredients
- 1 pound whole okra
- Optional: salt, butter, olive oil, lemon juice, or other seasonings to taste
Instructions
With a steamer basket:
- Fill a pot with 1–2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Place steamer basket over boiling water.
- Place okra in the basket, cover, and steam. Whole okra should steam for 3-5 minutes, until tender but still bright green. Cut okra pieces should steam for 2-4 minutes.
Without a steamer basket:
- Place okra and 1/4 cup water in a pot. Cover and cook 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Drain and season as desired.
Notes
- Don’t overcook: Steam just until tender (3–5 minutes) to avoid sliminess.
- Whole vs. sliced: Whole pods stay less slimy; slice only right before cooking if you want pieces.
- Frozen okra: No need to thaw. Add 1–2 extra minutes of cooking time.
- Baby-friendly: Okra is naturally soft when steamed. Cut into strips or bite-size pieces for little ones.
- Flavor it up: Try lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, or any seasoning you love.
- Leftovers: Refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat in microwave or skillet.
Nutrition
Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 339mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 812IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 1mg