If you're craving a taste of the South, look no further than this delightful Stewed Okra and Tomatoes recipe! Bursting with flavor and packed with fresh ingredients, this dish is a comforting classic that will transport your taste buds straight to a warm Southern kitchen. Perfect as a side or a main course over rice, it's not just a meal; it's an experience that brings family and friends together. Ready to dive into the heart of Southern cuisine? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh okra, sliced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh okra thoroughly under cool running water, then trim off the stem ends and slice the okra into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pan, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pan, cooking for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the sliced okra to the pan, stirring to combine with the onions, peppers, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the okra to start softening.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, including any juices, and sprinkle the sugar over the mixture. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, stirring gently to incorporate all ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the consistency and tenderness of the okra. The dish is ready when the okra is soft but not mushy and the tomatoes have broken down into a rich, thick sauce.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a side dish or over rice for a more substantial meal, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Okra: For the best flavor and texture, select firm, bright green okra pods without blemishes. Freshness is key to achieving that perfect stewed consistency.
- Sautéing Technique: When sautéing the onions and bell peppers, ensure they are soft and translucent before adding the garlic. This step builds a flavor base that enhances the entire dish.
- Adjusting Acidity: The sugar in the recipe balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference—just a pinch can make a big difference!
- Simmering Time: Don’t rush the simmering process! Allowing the okra and tomatoes to cook slowly will help meld the flavors together, resulting in a richer stew.
- Serving Suggestions: For a heartier meal, serve the stew over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
