Bamija

Bamija

Bamija (BAH-mee-yah)

Okra and Beef Stew

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 380 kcal

Tender okra pods braised with chunks of beef in a rich, paprika-spiced tomato sauce, ladled over fluffy rice.

Nutrition & Info

380 kcal per serving
Protein 28.0g
Carbs 22.0g
Fat 20.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

heavy pot wooden spoon sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep plate over rice

Garnishes: fresh parsley, lemon wedge

Accompaniments: rice, bread

Instructions

  1. 1

    Brown beef cubes in oil in a heavy pot over high heat. Remove and set aside.

  2. 2

    Sauté onion until golden. Add garlic and paprika, cook 1 min.

  3. 3

    Return beef, add tomatoes, tomato paste, and enough water to cover.

  4. 4

    Simmer covered 1 hour until beef is tender.

  5. 5

    Add okra and lemon juice. Simmer 30 min until okra is tender but not slimy.

  6. 6

    Serve over rice with crusty bread.

💡

Did You Know?

The lemon juice added with the okra prevents it from becoming slimy, a trick Bosnian grandmothers swear by.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • heavy pot
  • wooden spoon
  • sharp knife

Garnishing

fresh parsley, lemon wedge

Accompaniments

rice, bread

The Story Behind Bamija

Bamija showcases the Ottoman culinary influence on Bosnian cooking, combining Middle Eastern okra traditions with Balkan beef stewing techniques. It remains a beloved summer dish when fresh okra is abundant in Bosnian markets.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch 📜 Origins: Ottoman era

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