Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried bamia (okra)
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the dried bamia and cut off the stems. Set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the bamia, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the chopped spinach and stir to combine.
9. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 223
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken or beef broth.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes for a more tomato-based flavor.
- Use different spices, such as turmeric or ginger, for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for more vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- To prevent the bamia from becoming slimy, avoid overcooking it.
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in bowls with a side of rice or bread.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of hummus or baba ghanoush.
Suggested side dishes:
- Rice or bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bamia becomes slimy, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time or adding a splash of vinegar to the pot.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before and after handling raw ingredients.
Food history:
- Bamia is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is typically made with okra.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish has a savory and slightly spicy flavor profile.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side of rice or bread.
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Region: Middle Eastern