Okra water is a homemade beverage prepared by soaking okra pods in water and refrigerating for hours to create a slimy thick liquid.
The concoction is believed to have far-reaching benefits including improving digestion and overall gut health, aiding weight loss, boosting hydration, promoting heart health, and regulating blood glucose.
While Okra water is not your usual tasty drink, many people increasingly add it to their diet as they believe it has health benefits.
This article offers a step-by-step guide on how to make okra water and expounds on its health benefits to enhance your well-being.
How to Make Okra Water
Ingredients
- 4 fresh okra pods
- Water
- A spoonful of honey (Optional)
- A spoonful of lemon juice (Optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Wash the Okra
Start by rinsing the fresh okra pods using cold running water to remove dirt or debris. Once clean, use a clean towel to pat the okra pods dry.
2. Cut the Okra
Slice off the ends of each pod, that is, the stem and the tip.
Cut each pod into half, lengthwise then into small pieces (about half-inch slices). This allows easy release of mucilage during the soaking stage.
3. Soak the Okra
Place the chopped okra into a clean jar or bowl. Pour water ensuring to submerge all the okra pieces adequately.
4. Let it sit
Cover the glass or bowl. Then, allow the okra to soak for not less than 8 hours in the refrigerator to allow the release of all the gel-like substances from the okra pieces.
Note that some prefer the soaking time to extend up to 24 hours.
5. Strain the Water
Once the soaking time lapses, strain the water using a fine-mesh strainer to separate the okra pieces.
The water will be slightly thick and may have a gel-like texture; do not worry, it is safe to drink!
How to Drink Okra Water
Enjoy a serving of okra water as it is or add a spoonful of honey or lemon juice, to flavor it.
There isn’t a specific time to drink okra water, rather it depends on your preference. Some people prefer to take it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach while others take it anytime during the day.
Health Benefits of Drinking Okra Water
This homemade beverage has potential health benefits, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.
Okra is known for its richness in antioxidants, vitamins, and soluble fiber.
The soluble fiber aids smooth digestion, consequently improving gut health.
Besides the soluble fiber, Okra features Flavonoids that delay glucose absorption and thus may regulate blood sugar levels. However, do not include okra in your diet if you are diabetic, before consulting your doctor.
Further, okra is rich in Vitamins A and C, and antioxidant flavonoids that improve heart health by inhibiting the risk of vascular embolism.
Also, some people find it helpful for weight management since the dietary fiber in okra increases feelings of fullness. Besides, it’s rich in proteins hence reducing overall calorie intake.
In addition, okra water is hydrating and may support skin health due to its high vitamin C content.
Conclusion
Pick your fresh okra pods, wash them, cut them into small pieces, and soak them in water for at least 8 hours. Once the set time lapses, strain the water and you are ready to drink, flavored or not.
Okra water is an easy, natural, and refreshing drink that offers potential benefits to enhance your well-being. Remember, Okra water is an addition to your balanced diet.