Rice with Okra

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 pound fresh okra, bottom and top removed, and cut into rounds
• 3 scallions, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon habanero chile, minced
• 2 1/3 cups long-grain rice
• 1 quart water
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Set a large pot of water over high heat and bring it to a boil. While that gets going, add the oil to a large saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Add the okra and cook until it picks up a little color, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the water to the saucepan, then stir in the scallions, parsley, thyme, garlic, and habanero. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat to medium high and bring everything to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice, lower the heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes, giving it an occasional stir.
4. Pour the mixture into a colander to drain. Move it into a steamer basket or bamboo steamer, then place it over the pot of boiling water. Cover and steam for 7 minutes.
5. Use a fork to fluff the rice, taste and adjust the seasoning, and serve.