Okra Stew with Ground Beef

Looking for a healthy, hearty, and flavorful Turkish dish? Kıymalı Bamya, or Okra Stew with Ground Beef, is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and comforting flavors. The tender okra paired with juicy ground beef, fresh tomatoes, and a hint of lemon creates a light yet satisfying stew. Whether served with rice or fresh bread, this dish is a delicious way to bring a taste of traditional Turkish home cooking to your table.

Ingredients

For the okra:

• 500 g okra

• 1/2 lemon juice

• 1 small bowl of water

For the stew:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 100 g ground beef

• 1/2 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon pepper paste

• 2 tomatoes, diced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 lemon juice

• 1/2 cup hot water

Instructions

1. Wash the okra thoroughly and drain the excess water. Trim around the stems with a sharp knife, cutting into a cone shape without going too deep. Place them in a bowl with water and lemon juice, letting them soak for at least 15 minutes.

2. In a pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it softens and turns golden.

3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

4. Stir in the diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste and pepper paste. Cook until the tomatoes release their juices.

5. Gently add the okra and stir carefully, making sure not to break them apart.

6. Add the lemon juice, followed by salt and black pepper.

7. Pour in the hot water, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer.

8. Cook until the okra becomes tender and the stew slightly thickens. Remove from heat and serve warm.

This light yet flavorful Kıymalı Bamya is proof that simple ingredients can create a truly comforting meal. Have you tried okra before? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to like and share this recipe with your friends and family.