Okra Masala

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             FOOD FUNNY
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Here's a cute one from Rosemary Zwick:

A boy is about to go on his first date, and is nervous about what to
talk about. He asks his father for advice. The father replies: "My son,
there are three subjects that always work. These are food, family, and philosophy."

The boy picks up his date and they go to a soda fountain. Ice cream
sodas in front of them, they stare at each other for a long time, as the
boy's nervousness builds. He remembers his father's advice, and chooses
the first topic. He asks the girl: "Do you like potato pancakes?" She says "No," and the silence returns.

After a few more uncomfortable minutes, the boy thinks of his father's
suggestion and turns to the second item on the list. He asks, "Do you
have a brother?" Again, the girl says, "No" and there is silence once again.

The boy then plays his last card. He thinks of his father's advice and
asks the girl the following question: "If you had a brother, would he like potato pancakes?"

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             TODAY'S RECIPE
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This Indian-style dish is not only easy to prepare, but it will also
gain you an instant reputation as the best okra cook in the neighborhood.

Okra Masala

2 Tbs (30 ml) vegetable oil
2 medium onions, peeled and finely chopped
2 Tbs (30 ml) quick garam masala (see below)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 Tbs (15 ml) finely chopped fresh ginger
Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 lb (500 g) okra, trimmed and cut into 1-inch (2 cm) pieces
2 green bell peppers, cored, seeded, and chopped
1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Heat the oil in a large, heavy skillet over moderate heat. Saute the
onions, stirring frequently, until light golden brown. Add the garam
masala, garlic, ginger, salt, and cayenne pepper. Saute for another 2
minutes, stirring once or twice. Add the tomatoes, okra, bell peppers,
and water. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until the okra is tender.
Serves 4 to 6.

Quick Garam Masala

1 Tbs (15 ml) ground cardamom
1 tsp (5 ml) ground cumin
1/2 tsp (5 ml) ground coriander
1/2 tsp (2 ml) ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp (2 ml) freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp (1 ml) ground mace
1/4 tsp (1 ml) ground nutmeg

Combine the ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine.
Makes about 2 tablespoons (30 ml).
Received on Wed Feb 4 04:39:50 2009