Looking for a healthy and easy-to-prepare side dish for your next meal? Look no further than 10 Oz Okra, Frozen, which contains just 85 calories per serving. This versatile vegetable is low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
But that's not all - 10 Oz Okra, Frozen is also packed with a wide variety of beneficial vitamins and minerals, as well as dietary fiber that can help support your digestive health. So why not add this nutritious vegetable to your shopping list today?
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about 10 Oz Okra, Frozen - from its nutritional profile to its culinary uses and health benefits.
Calories in 10 Oz Okra, Frozen
As we mentioned earlier, a 10 Oz serving of frozen okra contains just 85 calories. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. For comparison, a 3-ounce serving of fried okra contains roughly 150-200 calories, depending on the recipe and cooking method. So if you're looking to cut back on calories and fat, switching to frozen okra could be a great option. Of course, it's always important to remember that portion size and overall dietary balance are key to maintaining a healthy weight. So make sure to eat your okra alongside plenty of other fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins for a well-rounded diet.
Macronutrient Profile of 10 Oz Okra, Frozen
In addition to being low in calories, frozen okra is also a good source of several key macronutrients. These include: - Carbohydrates: 20 grams - Protein: 6 grams
Micronutrient Profile of 10 Oz Okra, Frozen
Okra is also a rich source of many important vitamins and minerals, including: - Vitamin C: 70% of the DV (daily value) per serving - Vitamin K: 90% of the DV per serving
Okra's Fiber Content
One of the biggest benefits of frozen okra is its high fiber content. A 10 Oz serving contains 7 grams of dietary fiber, or about 28% of the DV. This can help support healthy digestion, reduce inflammation, and even lower your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Of course, it's always important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated when consuming high-fiber foods. If you're new to eating okra or other high-fiber vegetables, it's a good idea to start with smaller portions and gradually increase your intake over time. This can help reduce digestive discomfort and help your body adjust to the higher fiber load.
Vitamin Content in Okra
We already mentioned vitamin C and vitamin K as two key nutrients found in okra. But this vegetable is also a good source of several other important vitamins, including: - Vitamin A: 10% of the DV per serving - Vitamin B6: 8% of the DV per serving
Mineral Content in Okra
In addition to its vitamins, okra also provides several key minerals that are essential for optimal health. These include: - Calcium: 8% of the DV per serving - Iron: 8% of the DV per serving
Health Benefits of Okra
Given its impressive nutrient profile, it's not surprising that okra offers a range of potential health benefits. Some of the most notable include: - Lowering cholesterol levels: The soluble fiber in okra can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, which can lower your risk of heart disease. - Supporting healthy digestion: Okra's high fiber content can help promote bowel regularity and reduce inflammation in the gut. It may also help prevent conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diverticulitis.
Culinary Uses of Frozen Okra
Frozen okra is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. Some common culinary uses include: - Adding to stews, soups, and casseroles for a hearty and filling meal - Baking or roasting for a crunchy and flavorful snack
Choosing and Storing Frozen Okra
When shopping for frozen okra, look for packages that are well-sealed and free of ice crystals or freezer burn. This can be a sign that the okra has been stored properly and will be fresh and flavorful when cooked. Once you bring your okra home, be sure to store it properly in the freezer. This typically means keeping the package in a sealed plastic bag or container and placing it in the coldest part of your freezer. If stored correctly, frozen okra can last for several months without losing quality. When it comes time to cook your okra, always follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure the best results. Okra can be a delicate vegetable, so slightly shorter cooking times may be required to maintain its texture and flavor.
Okra Recipes to Try
Looking for some inspiration to help you get started cooking with okra? Here are a few delicious recipes to try: - Okra and Tomatoes: Combine sliced okra with canned tomatoes, onion, and garlic for a simple and delicious side dish. - Grilled Okra with Lemon-Garlic Aioli: Brush fresh okra with olive oil and grill until tender, then serve with a tangy garlic and lemon dipping sauce.
Eating a balanced and varied diet is essential for optimal health - but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor or enjoyment. With its rich and diverse nutritional profile, frozen okra is a tasty and convenient way to add more veggies to your diet and support your overall well-being.
FAQs About Frozen Okra
1. How many calories are in a 10 oz serving of frozen okra?
There are 85 calories in a 10 oz serving of frozen okra.
2. Is frozen okra as healthy as fresh okra?
Frozen okra has almost the same nutritional value as fresh okra. However, some of the vitamins and minerals may be slightly reduced due to the freezing process.
3. How can I prepare frozen okra?
Frozen okra can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as roasting, sauteing, or frying. It can also be added to soups, stews, and gumbo.
4. Can frozen okra be used in place of fresh okra in recipes?
Yes, frozen okra can be used in place of fresh okra in most recipes. However, it may have a slightly different texture and may release more moisture while cooking.
5. How should I store frozen okra?
Frozen okra should be stored in a freezer-safe bag or container in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 6 months.