Okra is one of the most popular vegetables in the Arab world.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4

　　1 pound small young okra

　　2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

　　1/2–1 tablespoon sugar

　　Salt and pepper

　　Juice of 1 small lemon, or to taste

　　

Step 1

Cut off the stem ends and wash the okra. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet. Add the okra and sauté gently for about 5 minutes, turning each pod over.

　　

Step 2

Add sugar, salt and pepper, the lemon juice, and just enough water to cover the okra.

　　

Step 3

Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the liquid is reduced. Raise the heat if neccesary to reduce the liquid at the end.

　　

Step 4

Serve cold.

　　The New Book of Middle Eastern Food Copyright © 2000Knopf