Have you known the Chinese okra benefits and still not consumed it? Let us tell you what you’re missing out on!
Chinese okra is a long, slender vegetable that belongs to the gourd family. It is often known as angled luffa or angled gourd. It comes from Southeast Asia and is a frequent ingredient in Chinese food. Chinese okra has white flesh with tiny seeds and green skin with longitudinal ridges. When cooked, it has a mild, somewhat sweet flavor and a crisp consistency. In addition to being frequently used in stir-fries, soups, and stews, Chinese okra can also be prepared in a number of different ways, such as by sautéing, boiling, and pickling. When included in a balanced diet, it is a healthy vegetable that is high in vitamins and minerals and may provide a number of health benefits.
Chinese Okra Benefits
1. Rich in Nutrients
Chinese okra is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. It is even low in calories and high in dietary fiber. The high fiber content of the vegetable can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.
2. Boost Immunity and Skin Health
The vitamin C in Chinese okra helps in boosting the immune system and protect against infections. Besides, it can help to promote healthy skin by supporting collagen production.
3. Support Heart Health
Chinese okra contains potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.
4. May have anti-inflammatory effects
The vegetable contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Overall, Chinese okra is a nutritious vegetable that may offer a range of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
- Stir-fry: In a wok or frying pan, heat some oil over high heat. Stir-fry the Chinese okra slices for 2–3 minutes, or until they are soft but still crunchy. Stir-fry for an additional one to two minutes before adding your preferred seasonings and sauces, such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
- Boil or steam: Chinese okra is added after boiling water is added to a pot. until tender, boil for 3 to 5 minutes. Add to soups and stews or drain and serve as a side dish.
- Pickle: Slice the okra into thin rounds, then combine with sugar, vinegar, and salt as desired. Before serving as a tart and light side dish, let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Grill or roast: Chinese okra that has been thinly sliced should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs before being grilled or baked until soft and faintly charred.
No matter how you choose to cook Chinese okra, it’s important to rinse it thoroughly and remove any tough outer skin before slicing or cooking.
How to Grow Chinese Okra?
Interested in Growing Chinese Okra? You can follow the below tips to get a perfect harvest of Chinese okra and reap the multiple benefits.
If you live in a moderate-temperature area, you have the best probability of growing a home supply of Chinese okra. The vegetable needs a fairly warm temperature to grow and thrive. You can directly plant the Chinese okra seeds once the temperature has risen to 70-80°F (21-27°C). Make a few rows that are 3 to 4 feet apart from each other. Sow the seeds approximately an inch deep and 12 to 18 inches apart. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 6.8.
You must water the plants to keep the soil moist but make sure to not make the soil soggy. Water the plants once a week or thrice a week during the dry spells. You can rely on a well-balanced fertilizer every three to four weeks throughout the growing season. Aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew are just a few of the pests and diseases that Chinese okra is vulnerable to. Maintain regular plant monitoring and apply the proper treatments as necessary.
Pruning is necessary since Chinese okra is a climbing vine that needs a trellis or fence for support. As the plant develops, it’s crucial to remove any side shoots to encourage upward growth.
You can harvest Chinese okra when the fruit is between 1 and 2 inches in diameter and 8 to 12 inches long. The fruit should feel solid and have light green skin. To remove the fruit from the vine, use pruning shears or a sharp knife. To prevent the plant from being harmed, cut the stem about an inch above the fruit.
When harvesting the Chinese okra, take care not to harm the flesh or break the skin. The veggie could spoil quickly as a result of this.
Chinese okra should be kept in a cold, dry place after harvesting. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Wash the Chinese well before cooking!
