This Asian okra recipe is a quick and easy veggie stir fry made with fresh okra and simple savory seasonings.
Try more Asian-style dishes; you’ll also love my Tofu Katsu and crispy, crowd-favorite Kangkong recipes.
Ingredient Notes
See the recipe card below for ingredient quantities and complete instructions.
- Okra - Fresh okra works best for a tender, non-slimy finish when cooked quickly; choose firm pods and pat them dry with a paper towel for a better texture and less sliminess.
- Dried seaweed - soak it well so it blends smoothly into the dish, especially when you mix everything in the pot.
- Tomato - gives natural sweetness and helps create a light sauce.
- Vegetarian oyster sauce or liquid aminos - adds savory richness without overpowering the veggies. You can also try tamari or vegan oyster sauce for a deeper flavor.
- Garlic and onion - build flavor fast and make the dish taste fuller and more aromatic, especially when cooked with ginger or paired with veggies like eggplant.
Storage
This dish keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. But the okra does not hold up well to freezing, as it can turn mushy, even if you boil it first for prep.
FAQs
Best Asian Okra Recipe
A quick and flavorful Asian-style okra stir-fry with tender vegetables and umami-rich seaweed. This simple, savory dish is perfect with steamed rice and ready in just 20 minutes!
Servings: -4 servings
Calories: 133kcal
Ingredients
- ½ pound (about 2 cups) fresh okra sliced
- ½ ounce (about 2 tablespoons) dried seaweed (kelp or similar) soaked and sliced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium tomato chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- ¾ cup water
- ½ –1 tablespoon brown sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions
Rehydrate the Seaweed
- Soak the dried seaweed in warm water for 5–10 minutes, or until softened.
- Slice the rehydrated seaweed into thin strips and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic, onion, and tomato until fragrant and the tomato begins to soften.
Add the Seaweed and Okra
- Stir in the sliced seaweed and cook for about 2 minutes to allow it to absorb the flavors.
- Add sliced okra, vegetarian oyster sauce (or liquid aminos), black pepper, and water. Stir well to combine.
Simmer
- Cover the pan and simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until the okra is tender but still slightly crisp.
Finish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add brown sugar if you prefer a hint of sweetness.
- Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm with steamed rice.
Notes
- Seaweed is naturally salty, so additional salt is usually not needed.
- You can use kelp, wakame, or similar dried seaweed varieties.
- For a spicy version, add sliced chili or chili flakes while sautéing.
Serving: 1gCalories: 133kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 29mgPotassium: 398mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 891IUVitamin C: 27mgCalcium: 91mgIron: 1mg
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Recipes for Every Moment
Busy mom who needs a healthy side dish for the kids? This Asian okra recipe cooks fast and turns the simplest veggies into a very satisfying meal!
Julius says
I really like this simple and nutritious recipe! Thank you so much 😊
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
You're welcome! Simple and nutritious is always a win in my kitchen 💛
XLover20 says
Not fond of okras. But my family does so this is great! Thanks!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
Awww that's a great idea. I hope they love it! 💛
shennnnn says
My all-time favorite dish!! Yummyyyy!!!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
Yayyy! So happy this dish is a favorite in your home too.
Mia says
this tasted amazing, Lainey! thank you for sharing!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
I'm glad you tried it! Thanks so much 😁
Camilla Remneblad says
This okra recipe is great! I love the addition of seaweed. A great combination!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
Glad you think so! Thanks for trying the recipe ☺️
Irene says
My mom made this for and it was delicious! The inside wasn't even slimy.
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
Wow! Tell her she did an amazing job ☺️ Tender without slimy texture was the goal
Anika says
Delicious!!!
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
I agree, Thanks! ☺️
Cheng says
This is such a simple, healthy, and savory dish to serve for the family. Thanks for sharing this recipe! 🙂
Kian Cablinda says
Looks healthy and tasty!