Fresh okra (Bhindi), 1kg

Originally from Africa, okra is now widely used in cuisines such as the Caribbean, Creole, Cajun, and Indian. It's also known as bhindi or lady's fingers, in reference to the long, elegantly tapering shape.

Ridged along its length, the green, slightly fuzzy pod contains rows of edible seeds that release a mucilaginous (sticky, viscous) liquid when chopped and cooked, which has led to it being used to thicken soup and stew recipes, such as Cajun gumbo, but it's also served whole as a side dish.

Its flavor is quite subtle, so it benefits from being cooked with strong, spicy ingredients.