Bamia is such a hearty stew despite the amount of ingredients. I love serving this with a bed of rice and a salad. You can make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the beef, however the flavor is not compromised.

**********************INGREDIENTS:
1 lb stew meat (lamb or beef)
1 pound frozen okra
16 oz canned crushed tomatoes
4 oz. canned tomato puree
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/8 teaspoon allspice
8 cups water
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
**********************PREPARATION:
In a large saucepan, brown meat with olive oil. Add onions and garlic.
Add crushed tomatoes, stirring well with meat, garlic and onion. Add cumin, coriander, salt and pepper, and allspice. Add water and tomato puree.
Add okra and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until meat is tender and done.
The sauce should thicken as it cooks. If it does not, add 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
Serve bamia with white rice and a salad