Spiced Okra "Salsa"

(origin Africa)

Ingredients: 3 cups water 1 small onion, finely, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper 1 pound fresh okra, stems, and tips trimmed, cut crosswise int 3 pieces

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, bring the water, onion, garlic, salt, cayenne, and white pepper to a boil over medium-high heat.  Add the okra and boil, stirring occasionally,  until the liquid has almost completely evaporated, about 15 minutes.

Drain the okra in a fine sieve, and rinse it under cold running water; drain well again,  Transfer the okra to a bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours before serving.