West African Okra (Fresh)

Ingredients

Nigerian Okra ( Abelmoschus caillei)

Origin

Grown in the Caribbean

Flavor Profile

Mildly grassy, subtly sweet, and distinctively mucilaginous

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Viscous, Flavorful & Essential Staple

West African okra is not your typical grocery store variety. This heirloom okra is shorter, denser, and richer in mucilage, the natural thickening agent that gives okra its signature texture in soups and stews. Preferred across West Africa for its superior viscosity, rich green color, and robust flavor, this okra transforms traditional dishes like okra soup and obe ila into deeply satisfying meals.

"West African okra is more than an ingredient—it’s the key to the perfect soup. Its unmatched viscosity and tender texture bring dishes together in a way that no other variety can."

Unlike the longer, firmer okra varieties commonly found in supermarkets, West African okra is smaller, more tender, and produces a silkier, more cohesive texture when cooked. Because of its extra mucilage and robust flavour, A. caillei is the variety traditionally used in Nigerian, Ghanaian, Cameroonian and other countries okra soups. Its ability to naturally thicken dishes while maintaining a fresh, vegetal taste makes it an indispensable ingredient in countless West African recipes.

Why Choose West African Okra?

Distinctive Texture & Nutrient-Rich

• Naturally high in mucilage, making it the best choice for thickening soups and stews.
• Packed with vitamins and fiber, offering both culinary and health benefits.
• Tender yet robust, creating a perfect consistency without becoming mushy.

A Culinary Essential in West African Cuisine

• Okra Soup & Obe Ila: The backbone of West African comfort food, providing rich, velvety texture.
• Stewed with Tomatoes & Peppers: Enhances flavors while adding depth to one-pot dishes.
• Grilled or Sautéed: Caramelizes beautifully, bringing out a lightly sweet undertone.
• Blended into Sauces: Used to thicken traditional West African stews for a smooth finish.

How to Use

West African okra brings a unique texture and flavor to a variety of dishes:

• Slice and add to soups for natural thickening and richness.
• Sauté with onions and spices for a flavorful, nutrient-packed side dish.
• Blend into stews for a silky consistency that enhances depth and flavor.
• Grill or roast for a unique smoky taste with a tender bite.

A Vegetable Rooted in Tradition

Grown on our farm in the Dominican Republic, our fresh West African okra is a cherished staple in traditional cooking. Whether slow-cooked into soups or lightly sautéed for a fresh, crisp texture, this variety stands apart for its ability to elevate every meal with its rich mucilage and deep flavor.

Harvest & Processing

Our fresh West African okra is hand-picked and carefully packed at peak ripeness to ensure it retains its vibrancy, viscosity, and authentic flavor. This meticulous process guarantees that you receive the highest-quality okra, ready to enhance your favorite traditional dishes.