Discover this uniquely delicious way to prepare okra that transforms the humble vegetable into an elegant dish. This Chinese-inspired recipe combines the nutritional benefits of okra with silky egg custard and savory minced beef sauce, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Okra and Egg Mixture
- 500g (1.1 lb) fresh okra
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 40ml (2.7 tablespoons) water
For the Beef Sauce
- 200g (7 oz) minced beef
- 1 medium tomato
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 inch piece ginger
- 2 spring onions
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon (7.5ml) dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15g) cornstarch
- 120ml (1/2 cup) water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Okra
- Clean okra by rubbing with salt to remove fuzz
- Bring water to boil with 1 tablespoon oil and 1 teaspoon salt
- Blanch okra for 1.5 minutes
- Shock in cold water
- Cut off ends and slice into rounds
Making the Egg Custard
- Beat eggs with vinegar and salt
- Add 40ml water and mix well
- Combine with sliced okra in a bowl
- Steam for 20 minutes on medium heat
Preparing the Beef Sauce
- Mince ginger, garlic, and spring onions
- Peel and dice tomato
- Mix sauce ingredients in a bowl
- Stir-fry beef until browned
- Add aromatics and tomatoes
- Pour in sauce mixture and cook until thickened
Nutritional Information
Per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Iron: 3.2mg
- Vitamin C: 15mg
Time Requirements:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Choose small, fuzzy okra for the best texture
- Don’t trim okra before blanching to retain nutrients
- Steam on medium heat to ensure custard sets properly
- Use room temperature eggs for better custard texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace beef with pork or chicken mince
- Use vegetable stock instead of chicken bouillon for vegetarian option
- Add chili oil for spicy variation
- Substitute oyster sauce with vegetarian mushroom sauce
Common FAQs
Q: Why is my egg custard watery?
A: Ensure proper water ratio and avoid opening steamer lid during cooking.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead?
A: Steam custard fresh, but sauce can be made ahead and reheated.
Q: How do I prevent okra from being slimy?
A: Proper blanching time and salt rubbing helps reduce sliminess.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Replace soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days
- Store sauce separately from custard
- Don’t freeze as texture will deteriorate
Reheating
- Steam custard portion gently for 3-5 minutes
- Heat sauce in microwave or stovetop
- Add fresh garnish before serving
This nutritious dish combines the health benefits of okra with protein-rich eggs and beef, making it a complete meal when served with rice. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with something unique and delicious.