Bamia


Bamia, or bamia bi-lahm, is a Middle Eastern, Anatolian and Greek stew prepared using lamb, okra and tomatoes as primary ingredients. Additional ingredients used include tomato sauce, onion, garlic, cilantro, vegetable oil, cardamom, salt and pepper. The word "bamia" itself simply means "okra" and it is etymologically an Arabic word.
Bamia is very popular during fasting seasons such as Easter in Greece and Cyprus.

Regional variations

In Turkey, bamia is an Anatolian stew that has a sweet and sour flavor. It is prepared using okra, lemon juice, olive oil, sugar, salt and pepper. Turkish bamia is sometimes served as a palate cleanser between food courses at ceremonial feasts.
In Egypt, sinew of lamb are typically used, which can endure long cooking times. Ta'aleya, an Egyptian garlic sauce, is used as an ingredient to add flavor to bamia.
In Iran, bāmieh is served as a khoresh along with rice and is a popular dish in the southern provinces.