Green Okra

🌿 Green okra, also known as lady’s finger in many parts of the world, is a vibrant, nutrient-rich vegetable that’s popular in tropical and subtropical cuisines. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it special:

🧬 Botanical Basics

• Scientific name: Abelmoschus esculentus
• Family: Malvaceae (same as hibiscus and cotton)
• Origin: Believed to be native to East Africa

🍽️ Culinary Uses

• Commonly used in curries, stir-fries, gumbo, and pickles
• Known for its mucilaginous texture (that gooey quality), which can thicken soups and stews
• Can be grilled, sautéed, fried, or even eaten raw in salads

🌱 Growing Green Okra

• Thrives in warm climates with full sun
• Grows best in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–6.5
• Harvested when pods are 2–4 inches long—any longer and they get tough

💪 Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, and fiber
• May help with blood sugar control, heart health, and digestion
• Low in calories and fat—great for weight-conscious diets