Learn how to make okra water using only 2 ingredients. You only need some filtered water and some okra pods (fresh or frozen).
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The introduction
I'm sure by now you have probably heard about the latest craze which is okra water. Okra water is a refreshing and nutrient-packed drink that’s gaining attention for its potential health benefits.
It helps to boost hydration and provide several health benefits. It’s believed to help with digestion, lower cholesterol, and stabilise blood sugar levels.
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this water is so easy to prepare and can be a great addition to your daily routine.
Whether you're looking to improve digestion, regulate blood sugar, or simply stay hydrated, okra water has got you covered!(source)
What is okra water?
In short, it is plain water (usually filtered) that is infused with okra pods. The okra is usually sliced or chopped so the dense gel like substance called Mucilage is exposed.
The water is left for several hours or overnight so all the goodness is released, then strained and ready to drink.
Plus, it’s an all-natural, refreshing drink that can be enjoyed throughout the day.
The taste is quite bland and very neutral although the texture is very slippery and slimely and similar to aloe vera gel.
Ingredients you will need
- Okra - You will need some okra pods, preferably fresh however if you find frozen okra more convinient then use that instead.
- Filtered water - Filtered water is more pure and fresh (don't use tap water).
Fresh and frozen okra
As you can see from the above picture, I have 2 bowls - fresh and frozen okra. You can prepare your water with either the former or latter.
However, there are a few factors to take into consideration, such as the taste and texture when using fresh okra is more concentrated. The nutritional content is typically more intact and much higher due to the freshness of the okra.
You will also find that fresh okra water will also produce a lot more mucilage which some people might find distasteful.
Keep in mind not everything that is good for us, is going to be palatable. Fresh okra does require washing and chopping , it ismore costly and the shelf lifeof the actual vegetable isn't very long so it would need to be used relatively quickly.
On the other hand, frozen okra although won't contain that freshness in taste and texture. The freezing process actually reduces the amount of mucilage which can be more favourable for some (source).
It is also more cost effective and convenient since you won't need to worry about the shelf life.
The steps
- Wash the okra pods in cold water (you can use a colander to do this) to get rid of any dirt or debris.
- Put the okra pods on a chopping board and proceed to chop them to expose the mucilage.
- Place the chopped okra in a large jug or pitcher.
- Pour the filtered water into the jug/pitcher with the okra.
- Refrigerate and allow the okra to soak in the water for atleast 8 hours or preferably overnight.
- When you are ready to use the water, strain off the okra water (this is optional as you can leave the okra pieces in the water) and then serve accordingly.
Notes and tips
- If you can't stomach the high mulicage content then it is best to use frozen okra instead.
- It is best to leave the water to soak overnight, don't rush the process, let it infuse for a long period of time.
- Feel free to add some fresh fruit pieces or even mix the water with fruit juice although having it neat is best.
- You can add mint leaves, lemon/lime, agave syrup, berries, turmeric, chia seeds, rosemary, apple cider vinegar etc...
- If you want to make a single serving, use 2-3 okra pod instead with 1-2 cups of water.
- You don't have to stain off the water, it's okay to drink it with the okra pieces.
More water recipes to try
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How to Prepare Okra Water
Ingredients
- 6 oz okra pods (175g)
- 10 cups water
Instructions
- Wash the okra pods in cold water (you can use a colander to do this) to get rid of any dirt or debris.
- Put the okra pods on a chopping board and proceed to chop them to expose the mucilage.
- Place the chopped okra in a large jug or pitcher.
- Pour the filtered water into the jug/pitcher with the okra.
- Refrigerate and allow the okra to soak in the water for atleast 8 hours or preferably overnight.
- When you are ready to use the water, strain off the okra water (this is optional as you can leave the okra pieces in the water) and then serve accordingly.
Notes
- If you can't stomach the high mulicage content then it is best to use frozen okra instead.
- It is best to leave the water to soak overnight, don't rush the process, let it infuse for a long period of time.
- Feel free to add some fresh fruit pieces or even mix the water with fruit juice although having it neat is best.
- You can add mint leaves, lemon/lime, agave syrup, berries, turmeric, chia seeds, rosemary, apple cider vinegar etc...
- If you want to make a single serving, use 2-3 okra pod instead with 1-2 cups of water.
- You don't have to stain off the water, it's okay to drink it with the okra pieces.
Nutrition
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