Vegetarian Okra Stew

http://checkitoutavesta.blogspot.com/2009/02/vegetarian-okra-stew.html -- The final product is a rich and healthy stew that you can keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it in batches to enjoy later!

• Ready In: 1 hr 15 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 16  ounces  frozen baby okra or 16  ounces  fresh baby okra
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1  large onion, chopped
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2  tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 -3  cups water
• 2  cloves chopped garlic
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cumin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon allspice
• 1  teaspoon  red hot pepper (optional)
•  salt and pepper

Directions

1. Saute the chopped onion and garlic in the olive oil just till soft. Add the tomato paste and saute for another 30 seconds and then add the diced tomatoes and mix well. Season with the nutmeg, cumin, allspice, hot pepper and salt and pepper and stir.
2. Add the water to the mixture, mix and bring to a slight boil. Add the okra, cover your pan and lower the heat to simmer the stew. Let the stew simmer until it has thickened and the okra is nice and soft, continue to mix during the simmering process.
3. Taste the stew before serving to make sure your seasoning is right as the flavors should intensify as the stew reduces. Add more water if your stew is overwhelming or add more spice if it is not to your liking. Serve over rice or just in a bowl with some naan or pita bread.