The etymology for the word okro can be traced to the 1670s Nigerian Igbo word, ọ́kụ̀rụ̀.
This is possibly due to historic references of the entire Sub Saharan African region as Aethiopia. The okro plant itself is native to West Africa, though sometimes the origin is attributed to Ethiopia. In fact, there are some versions of gumbo from Southern American cuisine, that are directly related to okro stew in West and Central Africa by name and consistency.
Different variations of it can be found all over the region and the rest of the world. Okra (okro) stew must be one of the most widely known dishes originating out of West Africa. This Seafood Okra Stew is a classic West African way to enjoy okra (okro): wiith tiger prawns and white fish in a flavorful tomato sauce.
