Description
Southern classic Stewed Okra and Tomatoes brings comfort and tradition to your table. Fresh vegetables simmer together, creating a hearty side dish that connects families through simple, flavorful ingredients you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) fresh or frozen okra, sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) can diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 medium onion, diced
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquid and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sautéing diced onions until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and quickly sauté for 30-45 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence without burning.
- Add sliced okra, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, creating a vibrant, colorful mixture.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and allow the ingredients to simmer gently for 18-22 minutes, stirring every 5-6 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Check okra’s tenderness and sauce consistency; if needed, continue cooking uncovered to slightly reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
- Splash apple cider vinegar into the mixture, providing a bright, tangy undertone that balances the rich, hearty vegetables.
- Taste and fine-tune seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices to personal preference.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld completely.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme, creating a visually appealing and herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately while warm, offering a rustic and comforting side dish.
Notes
- Trim okra ends carefully to prevent slimy texture and ensure clean, crisp vegetable pieces.
- Opt for fresh okra when possible, selecting pods that are bright green, firm, and under 4 inches long for best flavor and texture.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and allow more precise seasoning during cooking.
- Consider adding diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and a subtle sweet crunch that complements the okra’s earthy profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg