Country: Iran Servings: Serves 4

Ingredients

• okra – 400 g / 14 oz
• lamb or beef, cubed – 500 g / 17.6 oz
• onion, chopped – 1 large / 150 g
• garlic cloves, minced – 3
• canned crushed tomatoes – 400 g / 14 oz
• vegetable oil – 3 tbsp
• turmeric powder – 1 tsp
• salt – 1 tsp
• black pepper – 1/2 tsp
• lime juice – 2 tbsp
• water – 2 cups / 480 ml

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
2. Add the minced garlic and turmeric, stirring for 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Add cubed meat into the pot, browning all sides evenly for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour, or until meat is tender.
5. Add the okra and lime juice into the pot, stirring gently to combine. Continue to cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the okra is tender.
6. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Substitutions

• lamb or beef -> chicken or tofu
• lime juice -> lemon juice
• canned crushed tomatoes -> fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Add 1 tsp of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
• Include finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for garnish.
• Substitute half the water with chicken or beef broth for deeper flavor.