Okra

In a suitably sized bowl, we will start by washing the okra well and trimming the ends. Once they are prepared, we will mix them with a moderate amount of vinegar, ensuring that each okra is evenly coated. This step will not only add a pleasant taste to the dish but will also help maintain the vibrant color of the okra. We let the mixture sit for a few moments, during which we will focus on the additional ingredients.

In a deep pot, we pour a generous amount of oil, which we will heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, we add the sliced onion, letting it sauté for about 4-5 minutes. It is essential to stir occasionally to avoid burning the onion, which could give our dish a bitter taste. After the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize slightly, we add the garlic, chopped or crushed, continuing to sauté the mixture for an additional minute until the flavors are released.

The next step is to add the fresh tomatoes, which we will grate. These will bring extra juiciness and an intense flavor to our dish. Once the tomatoes are in the pot, we sprinkle salt, pepper, and half a teaspoon of sugar, which will balance the acidity of the tomatoes. We let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous and aromatic.

Then, we will add the drained okra from the vinegar, ensuring that we integrate them well into the sauce. On top, we sprinkle the finely chopped parsley, being careful not to stir with the spoon to avoid damaging the okra. We continue with the slices of tomato, which we arrange nicely on top of the okra, sprinkling again with salt, pepper, and a little sugar for a balanced taste. Finally, we add a cup of water, which will help cook the ingredients evenly.

We put the lid on the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes or until the okra absorbs all the water. It is important to check occasionally, gently shaking the pot to prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom. When the oil starts to separate from the sauce, indicating that the okra is ready, we can prepare to enjoy this delicious dish, full of Mediterranean flavors. Serve warm, alongside a side of rice or fresh bread, to complete the culinary experience.