Okra, otherwise called bamia, bindi, bhindi, lady's finger, and gumbo, is a part of the cotton (Mallow) family. It is a fluffy, green hued, and ribbed pod that is roughly 3-7 inches long. This vegetable is all the more broadly known by its columns of small seeds and tacky surface when cut open. 

Fresh okra should be used the same day that it is purchased or stored in a paper bag in the warmest part of the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Do not wash the okra until ready to use, or it will become slimy. Fry okra when you are using it to reduce its slimy texture.