An Okra in Garlic Oyster Sauce Salad sounds like a flavorful and unique dish! The tender okra combined with the savory, umami-packed oyster sauce, garlic, and a hint of spice can make for a refreshing yet bold salad. Here’s an easy recipe for you to try:
Okra in Garlic Oyster Sauce Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh okra, trimmed and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy touch)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed, to thin the sauce)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions:
- Blanch the Okra:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the okra and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Drain and immediately transfer the okra to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Oyster Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar (if using), sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Adjust the seasoning to taste — add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tang, or sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Okra with Garlic Sauce:
- Add the blanched okra to the pan with the garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the okra is evenly coated with the garlic and oil.
- Pour in the prepared oyster sauce mixture and toss to coat. If you want a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes at this point. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Transfer the okra mixture to a serving dish. Allow it to cool slightly, then garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions and toasted sesame seeds if you like.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. It’s great as a side dish or a light main course!
This Okra in Garlic Oyster Sauce Salad is savory, aromatic, and just the right balance of flavors with a nice crunch from the okra. Let me know how it goes, or if you have any questions while preparing it!