🇪🇬 Egypt · Food
Bamya (Okra Lamb Stew)
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇪🇬 EGA 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.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow 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
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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