Okra - also known in the West as ‘ladies’ fingers’ due to their pointed finger-like shape, is a ridged green pod with a gummy inside which is what gives okra its special character. It is native to Africa where it is also known as ‘gumbo’ hence the gumbos of Cajun and Creole cooking where they feature heavily. They are also used extensively in the Middle East. They are also delicious dusted in spiced flour or battered and deep-fried.
