.fresh okra.

I found fresh okra at the farmer's market this weekend. It made me miss cooking in malawi and market days so I had to make an okra curry. 

And did you know that okra was a power veggie? A great source of fiber, folic acid, vitamin B6! Almost 10% of the recommended daily needed folic acid (a b vitamin that helps new cells which means everyone not just pregnant women need this) and vitamin B6 (does a lot things in the body like aids amino acid metabolism, supports immune function, hemoglobin formation and more) in just a half cup.

"Okra is a powerhouse of valuable nutrients. Nearly half of which is soluble fiber in the form of gums and pectins. Soluble fiber helps to lower serum cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. The other half is insoluble fiber which helps to keep the intestinal tract healthy decreasing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colorectal cancer. Nearly 10% of the recommended levels of vitamin B6 and folic acid are also present in a half cup of cooked okra."

-University of Illinois

Go eat more okra!

.summer eats.

Is it hot in your corner of the world? I never though I would come back to America to "warm up" from the cold winter of Malawi (more chilly than cold but you know...). It's been straight high 90's to 100. It's a demanding dry heat, but I love it. The only way I know summer time to be.

But with the thick heat what to eat? zucchini crudo (raw) and fried okra? Sounds good to me.

let simmer until the onions are soft and fragrant then add a few tomatoes (not pictured). While this is simmering with the tomatoes put the red pepper in the oven to roast.

let mix simmer and saute until soften. Set aside until meal is read and then serve on top on zucchini (think spaghetti).

and then a good ol' southern appetizer...

the cornmeal mix is mostly cornmeal with a dash of flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.

and finally enjoy!

deschutes brewery anyone??