One-Pot Okra Rice Recipe

Try this flavorful and nutritious okra rice recipe that combines tender okra pods with aromatic spices and fluffy rice. This one-pot dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Just sauté the ingredients, add the rice, simmer, and enjoy a wholesome meal with a hint of Southern flavors. Okra rice is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish to complement your favorite meats or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 pound okra, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper and okra to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the cumin powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot, and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
5. Add the white rice to the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
8. Simmer the rice for about 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked and tender.
9. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.
12. Enjoy the delicious okra rice as a main course or serve it as a side dish.

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