Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) fresh okra (lady fingers)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon shrimp paste (belacan), optional
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Okra:
– Rinse the okra under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off the ends and cut each okra into halves lengthwise.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
– Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
– Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili. Stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Okra:
– If using shrimp paste (belacan), add it to the skillet and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Add the okra to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the okra is tender and slightly charred, stirring occasionally.
4. Season the Dish:
– Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well to coat the okra evenly with the sauce.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning according to your preference.
5. :serve;
– Transfer the cooked Malaysian-style okra to a serving dish.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Enjoy your Malaysian Lady Fingers (Okra) as a delicious side dish or part of a larger Malaysian-inspired meal!
