August 17, 2009

Organic okra at farmers market

Every now and then, we drive out to a small farmers market in one of the suburbs. We don't go often since it is a 30+ minute drive and only has a couple of stalls that we go to (we can finish in 15 minutes - with browsing). But unlike the big city farmers market 10 minutes from our house, this one has a couple of organic farmers (vegetables, meats, cheeses, eggs).

This weekend was one of those weekends to make the drive. We picked up some wonderful fresh squash, bell peppers and okra. In fact, I may have to go back next weekend to pick up some more okra. Last summer I stored up a bunch after one of the daughters taught me how to freeze it. Wash, dry and slice. Place on cookie sheet and freeze. Remove from cookie sheet and store in freezer bags. We used it for months.

For those that shy away from okra, it's really quite good. And easy to prepare. Once sliced, add to pan with some olive oil, salt and pepper. Add garlic and chopped green onion if you like. "Fry" up until slightly crisp. Serve.

4 comments:

Mary N. said...

I have never tried okra. My husband says that I don't know what I'm missing. It is harder to get here, too. I do love farmers markets though, and we have quite a few organic farmers. I can get organic produce,eggs, some meats and sometimes even fresh goats milk.

Diana said...

I'll admit okra can be kind of scary. When you get it, it's tough on the outside with an almost spiky feel. Then, when you slice it, it's slimy. But if you fry it up in some olive oil, the sliminess goes away. My grandmother used to fix it with tomatoes.
There are a few organic farmers around here. But since we live near the middle of the city, the farms are all a good hour away. *sigh*

Anonymous said...

I think I've seen okra at the supermarket but I've never been brave enough to try it! However, now I know how to cook it, I may be more adventurous - thanks for sharing.

Diana said...

Enjoy the okra!