Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this extraordinary Bamia Baked Molded Okra and Beef recipe! If you're craving a dish that combines tender okra, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a symphony of aromatic spices, you've just struck culinary gold. This isn't just a recipe—it's a passport to a taste experience that will transport your senses straight to the bustling kitchens of the Middle East, where every bite tells a story of tradition and passion.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 500g okra, trimmed
- 300g ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Wash the okra thoroughly and trim off the stem ends. Pat dry completely with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Season the beef mixture with cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes to the beef mixture, breaking them down with the spoon. Simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavors.
- Layer the trimmed okra in the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef and tomato mixture evenly over the okra.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the top to slightly crisp and caramelize.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with rice, bread, or your preferred side dish. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Middle Eastern dish.
Tips
- Okra Moisture Management: The key to preventing a soggy dish is to thoroughly dry your okra after washing. Use paper towels and pat them completely dry to ensure a perfect texture.
- Spice Intensity: Feel free to adjust the cumin and coriander to your taste. For a more authentic flavor, consider toasting whole spices before grinding.
- Meat Selection: Use lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) for the best balance of flavor and texture. This ensures your dish isn't too greasy.
- Baking Dish Strategy: Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for even heat distribution and to prevent sticking.
- Garnish Freshness: Add fresh parsley just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and aromatic qualities.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, with flavors often improving overnight.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
