Why is Okra slimey???

Question

I can't get over it. It tastes good but the slime!!!

Answer 1

I think the substance in it relates to the slimy stuff that comes out. I think i learned a while back that you can miminize the slim by leaving them whole n just slice the ends off, or not overcooking.

Answer 2

Okra plant belongs to mallow family, well known for producing slime.

Mucilages are not pathological products but are formed in normal plant growth within the plant by mucilage-secreting hairs, sacs, and canals, but they are not found on the surface as exudates as a result of bacterial or fungal action after mechanical injury, as are gums.( cit. )

If you don`t like this mucilage add some vinegar to boiling water or stir fry the okra:

For more info see source and "All about Okra"

http://www.neurophys.wisc.edu/ravi/okra/

This site shows composition of mucilage, nutrition, history, recipes etc.