tomato and okra recipe

tomato and okra recipe

The Best tomato and okra recipe

I’m so excited to share this delicious tomato and okra recipe with you all. I first tried this dish at a family gathering where my aunt, who’s an amazing cook, made it for everyone. The combination of the tender okra and the juicy tomatoes in a flavorful sauce was just incredible.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself. After some experimentation, I’ve perfected this recipe and I’m happy to share it with you today. The beauty of this dish is that it’s so easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Plus, it’s incredibly healthy, with the okra providing a good dose of fiber and vitamins. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and stir-frying the okra and tomatoes in the pan. One of the key techniques in making this dish is cooking the okra until it’s tender but still retains its crunchiness.

This takes some patience, but trust me, it’s worth it. Simply sauté the sliced okra in a bit of oil until they start to soften, then add in your chopped tomatoes and continue cooking until they’re both tender and lightly browned. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at a family gathering.

And with its impressive health benefits, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your loved ones. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! It’s become a staple in our household and I know it will be in yours too once you try it out.

Tomato and Okra Stew

Tomato and Okra Stew

4.6 from 552 votes

A hearty and flavorful stew combining tender okra with ripe tomatoes. This Southern-inspired dish is perfect as a side or served over rice for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stew

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
4 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes)
1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4Stir in the sliced okra and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the okra begins to lightly brown and lose its raw green color.
5Add the diced tomatoes, water or broth, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
6Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7Let the stew simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the tomatoes have broken down into a thick sauce.
8The stew should have a rich red color and a slightly thickened consistency.
9Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or cilantro.
10Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
11Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 5g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 cup of cooked bacon or andouille sausage along with the tomatoes. To reduce sliminess, cook okra over higher heat and avoid overcooking. This stew can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Watch Video Of How Tomato and Okra Stew Works

This tomato and okra recipe stores well in the fridge for up to four days and the flavors actually get better overnight. To reheat just warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for two to three minutes.

If you want to freeze it let the dish cool completely then transfer it to a freezer safe container and it will keep for three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This dish is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple to make and pleases a crowd.

I have brought it to family gatherings and potlucks and it always gets compliments. It works well for a casual weeknight dinner or as part of a holiday spread. Serve it alongside cornbread, rice, or grilled meat and you have a meal that feels both comforting and special.

I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato and Okra Stew

Q: What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

The best type of tomatoes to use for this recipe are cherry or grape tomatoes. They have a sweet flavor and a soft texture that works perfectly with the okra.

Q: Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen okra instead of fresh. Just thaw them first by leaving them at room temperature overnight or by thawing them quickly by submerging them in cold water.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. The longest part is waiting for the okra to cook down.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

You can definitely add other vegetables to this recipe if you like. Some options include bell peppers, onions, garlic, or mushrooms.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as long as you’re using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I store leftovers in the fridge or freezer?

Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge or freezer. Simply let them cool before refrigerating or freezing.

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