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Egypt · Food

Bamya (Okra Lamb Stew)

60 min
630 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Bamya (Okra Lamb Stew)🇪🇬AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

21 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Bamya (Okra Lamb Stew). The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Stew404 recipes from 26 countriesSee all 21 matches

A classic Egyptian stew featuring tender pieces of lamb and fresh okra simmered in a robust, tangy tomato sauce. This rustic, flavorful dish is deeply comforting and frequently prepared for family weekend gatherings.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Bamya from another cuisine is Bamieh bil Lahme (Lebanon): the two share 86% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Cut the 800g of lamb into bite-sized chunks and brown them thoroughly in 30ml of olive oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat.

  • 2

    Add 2 chopped onions to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

  • 3

    Stir in 5 cloves of minced garlic and 50g of tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to intensify the flavors.

  • 4

    Pour in 500ml of beef stock and 10g of salt, then simmer the meat on low heat for 30 minutes until almost tender.

  • 5

    Add the 500g of trimmed okra to the stew, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.

  • 6

    Cover and simmer for an additional 20 minutes until the okra is cooked through but still holds its shape.

  • 7

    Check the seasoning and add more salt if necessary to balance the acidity of the tomato base.

  • 8

    Serve steaming hot, preferably paired with vermicelli rice for a complete Egyptian meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bamya?

Bamya is an Egyptian stew consisting of okra and lamb cooked in a tomato-based broth with garlic and spices. It is typically served as a main course alongside vermicelli rice during lunch or dinner.

How do I prevent the okra from getting slimy?

Avoid cutting the tops completely off the okra pods, and try not to over-stir the stew once the okra is added.

Can I use frozen okra?

Yes, just add it directly to the pot without thawing; adjust the cooking time slightly as it cooks faster.

Is there a trick to tender lamb?

Searing the meat well before adding any liquid is essential for locking in juices and flavor.

Can I substitute the lamb?

Beef works as a great substitute, though lamb provides the most traditional and rich flavor for this dish.

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