Ingredients

1 lb okra or package frozen okra
1 eggplant , about a pound
2 medium zucchini
2 medium green bell peppers
1 large onion
3 tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons garlic , finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
1/2 cup parsley , fresh , finely chopped
1 bay leaf , preferably fresh
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
salt , to taste
Turkish Okra Casserole is a traditional dish that is popular in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries. It is a simple and healthy vegetarian dish that is easy to make and perfect for any season. This version of the recipe combines okra, eggplant, zucchini, green peppers, and tomatoes in a delicious and flavorful tomato sauce. The casserole is baked in the oven until the vegetables are tender and flavorful, and is often served with some crusty bread or rice on the side. Whether you're looking for a tasty appetizer or a satisfying main dish, Turkish Okra Casserole is a great choice that is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a large casserole dish.
2.Rinse the vegetables and trim the stems off the green peppers. Cut the zucchini, eggplant, and green peppers into thick slices and set aside.
3.Cut the okra at an angle into 1/2-inch rounds and chop the onion and tomatoes.
4.In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
5.Add the pepper flakes, bay leaf, and thyme, and stir for another minute before adding the tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes have broken down and released their juice.
6.Layer the vegetables in the casserole dish, starting with the okra, followed by the eggplant, zucchini, and green peppers. Sprinkle some salt over each layer.
7.Pour the tomato sauce over the vegetables, making sure it is evenly distributed.
8.Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
10.Once done, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

PROS

Turkish Okra Casserole is a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Okra is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while the rest of the vegetables are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

This casserole is perfect as an appetizer or side dish, but can also be enjoyed as a main course with some bread or rice on the side.

CONS

Some people may dislike the texture of okra, which can be slimy when cooked.

If you’re using fresh okra, it may require some extra preparation before adding it to the dish.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Turkish Okra Casserole is a nutritious dish that is rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Okra is high in fiber and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and support overall digestive health. The other vegetables in this dish also provide a range of health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.

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