Savor the Tangy Richness of Turkish Okra Soup – Bamya Çorbası.
Immerse yourself in the comforting flavors of Bamya Çorbası, a beloved Turkish soup that blends tender lamb, soft okra, and a rich, tomato-based broth with a tangy lemon kick. This traditional recipe captures the essence of Turkish home cooking, combining earthy and vibrant ingredients into a hearty, soul-warming dish.
Perfect for family dinners or as a festive starter, Bamya Çorbası pairs beautifully with fresh bread or rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal. The use of lemon salt enhances the dish’s bright and tangy flavor, ensuring every bite is both comforting and refreshing.
Celebrate the vibrant culinary heritage of Turkey with this easy-to-make yet unforgettable soup, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
To Boil the Okra:
⦁ 100 grams dried okra
⦁ Hot water, enough to cover
⦁ 1 teaspoon lemon salt
For the Soup:
⦁ 300 grams lamb, cubed
⦁ 2 large onions, finely chopped
⦁ 2 tablespoons tomato paste
⦁ 1 tablespoon sweet pepper paste
⦁ 1 teaspoon salt
⦁ 3 tablespoons butter
⦁ Hot water, enough to cover
1. Prepare the Okra: Rub the dried okra with your hands to remove its small hairs and any fringe. Boil in hot water with a teaspoon of lemon salt for 10 minutes. Drain and shock the okra with cold water. Remove any remaining threads.
2. Cook the Lamb: In a large pot, roast the cubed lamb until it releases its juices and reabsorbs them. Add the butter and sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn pink and fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and sweet pepper paste, continuing to cook until their aroma is released.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour enough hot water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil. Add the pre-cooked okra and salt. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Enhance the Flavor: Add lemon salt to the soup and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve: Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it hot with a side of fresh bread or over rice.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Okra – Use small, tender pods (fresh or frozen); avoid large ones as they can be fibrous
✔ Onion – Yellow or white, finely chopped for a smooth aromatic base
✔ Garlic – Minced for depth of flavor
✔ Tomato Paste – Adds rich umami and complements the tanginess of okra
✔ Fresh Tomatoes – Ripe and juicy (or use canned if out of season)
✔ Lemon Juice – Essential for keeping okra tender and preventing sliminess
✔ Olive Oil – For sautéing and a smooth finish
✔ Meat (Optional) – Lamb or beef cubes are traditional, but chicken or vegetarian versions also work
✔ Stock – Vegetable or meat-based for added flavor
✔ Salt & Pepper – Adjust to taste
✔ Optional: Green chili or Aleppo pepper – For mild heat
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Prep the Okra – Trim tips (don’t slice open) to reduce sliminess; soak in lemon water
✔ Sear Meat First – If using, brown meat cubes for flavor, then set aside
✔ Sauté Aromatics – Cook onion and garlic in olive oil until golden
✔ Add Tomato Paste – Cook briefly to enhance flavor, then add chopped tomatoes
✔ Simmer Gently – Add stock and okra, then cook until okra is just tender
✔ Add Lemon Last – To preserve brightness and avoid bitterness
🔥 Cooking Techniques
✔ Low & Slow – Gentle simmering keeps okra intact and prevents over-softening
✔ Don’t Stir Too Much – Reduces slimy texture; fold gently when needed
✔ Acid Matters – Lemon juice or a splash of vinegar balances okra and keeps it firm
✔ For Richer Base – Add a pinch of sugar if tomatoes are too acidic
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Tangy & Savory – The key is balancing the citrusy note with rich tomato depth
✔ Layered Spices – A hint of cumin or coriander adds warmth if desired
✔ Garnish Smart – Fresh herbs like parsley or coriander add a bright lift before serving
📦 Storage
✔ Fridge – Lasts 2–3 days; flavors develop overnight
✔ Freezer – Best if meat-based; freeze in portions and reheat gently
✔ Reheat Carefully – Stir lightly to maintain okra’s texture
🍽 Serving
✔ Traditional Style – Serve with lemon wedges and crusty white bread
✔ With Rice – A scoop of plain rice on the side makes it a full meal
✔ Light Garnish – Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or chopped herbs
✔ Pairing – Pairs well with a crisp white wine or ayran for a refreshing contrast