Egyptian Okra Stew: A Vegan Twist on a Classic

As I sit here typing away, surrounded by the aromas of onions and okra wafting from my kitchen, I am reminded of the power of food to transport us back in time and evoke feelings of comfort and joy. This Egyptian okra stew is more than just a hearty dish - it's a testament to the magic that can happen when we run towards the vegetables most people think they don't like.

I first discovered my love for okra while living in Texas, where it's abundant and often used in traditional dishes. My family would gather around the table, forks in hand, as I served up big bowls of lamb-based stews. But little did anyone know that this Texan-turned-Seattlite was determined to find a way to make okra shine on its own.

Last year, my best friend's dad, a farmer from Virginia, sent me a huge box of fresh okra after hearing about my struggles to find it in Seattle. It was like a little piece of heaven had arrived at my doorstep. As I chopped the okra and onions for this stew, I couldn't help but move my body to the beat of Beyoncé's tunes - it was like I was on another planet!

The end result was nothing short of miraculous. The okra added a depth of flavor and texture that elevated this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. And as I took my first bite, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief wash over me. It's funny how something so simple can bring us such joy.

As I write this article, I'm also reflecting on the journey of my book, Soup Club, which is finally seeing the light of day after months of delays due to 'supply chain issues.' The thought of sharing this stew with readers and hearing their stories about how it has brought them comfort and joy is a truly humbling experience.

So, without further ado, I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure as we explore the world of okra and discover its many wonders. Grab a spoon and dig in - your taste buds will thank you!