Okra belongs to the hibiscus family and is popular in Southern cooking and Indian cuisine, where it's often added to curries. Ground okra seeds are even used as a coffee substitute. Tell if okra has gone bad by inspecting the firm green pods -- if they're soft, squishy, brown, throw them away. Be aware that depending on how it's prepared, good okra may take on a slimy texture when cooked, but this doesn't indicate spoilage.

Okra lasts only 2 to 3 days in the fridge, but is good for 10 to 12 months when frozen. Prep it for freezing by washing and removing the stems. Next, boil it for 3 minutes before plunging it into a bowl of ice water for a few moments, according to Still Tasty. Finally, chop the okra into pieces or keep it whole, and place it in plastic bags or an airtight container and put it in the freezer.