Stewed Okra and Tomatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a flavorful, hearty, and wholesome side dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking, this Stewed Okra and Tomatoes recipe is the perfect choice. This simple yet savory dish brings together tender okra, ripe tomatoes, onions, and a mix of spices for a satisfying combination that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Whether you're serving it alongside cornbread or as a topping for rice, stewed okra and tomatoes is a comforting, nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor. Keep reading to learn how to make this soul-warming recipe!

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What is Stewed Okra and Tomatoes?

Stewed Okra and Tomatoes is a classic Southern dish that combines the unique texture of okra with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. The dish typically includes onions, garlic, and sometimes bell peppers, all simmered together until the flavors meld into a delicious, savory stew. Okra’s slightly slimy texture (often referred to as “mucilage”) thickens the stew naturally, creating a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a main course. This dish is often served with cornbread or rice, making it a beloved staple in Southern cuisine.

Ingredients List for Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious and nutritious stewed okra and tomatoes dish:

• Fresh Okra: 1 pound, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• Tomatoes: 4 medium-sized (about 1½ lbs), chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz)
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Bell Pepper: 1 medium, chopped (optional, for added flavor)
• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: ½ cup (optional, for added flavor and moisture)
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Paprika: ½ teaspoon (optional, for added color and flavor)
• Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh Thyme or Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a hint of earthy flavor)
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and there are many ways to tweak it according to your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Okra: Fresh okra is ideal, but you can use frozen okra if fresh is unavailable. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the stew.
• Tomatoes: If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly well and save time.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme adds depth to the flavor, but dried thyme or oregano can also be used. For a brighter flavor, basil or parsley can be added at the end.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, or omit it entirely and let the tomatoes provide the liquid.
• Spices: For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or extra cayenne pepper. For a more smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful pot of stewed okra and tomatoes:

1. Prep the Vegetables:

• Wash the okra thoroughly and slice it into ½-inch rounds. Set aside.
• Chop the tomatoes, onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic.

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

• Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using), and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

1. Add the Tomatoes:

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to break down and release their juices. If using fresh tomatoes, the stew will be thicker, while canned tomatoes may create a more liquid base.

1. Add the Okra and Spices:

• Add the sliced okra to the skillet, along with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
• If the stew looks too thick, add the chicken or vegetable broth, about ½ cup, to loosen it up and allow the okra to cook properly.

1. Simmer the Stew:

• Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded together.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the stew is done, remove it from the heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley.
• Serve hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice. You can also enjoy it with cornbread for a true Southern meal.

How to Cook Stewed Okra and Tomatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking stewed okra and tomatoes is a simple process, but breaking it down into steps makes it even easier:

1. Step 1: Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add tomatoes and cook them down to create the base of the stew.
3. Step 3: Stir in the okra, spices, and broth, then simmer everything until tender.
4. Step 4: Taste and adjust seasonings, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cooking Okra on High Heat: Okra releases mucilage when cooked, which can make it slimy. Cooking the okra on low heat and allowing it to simmer slowly will help prevent this and ensure a tender, non-slimy texture.
• Not Adjusting the Acidity: Tomatoes can be quite acidic, which can overwhelm the dish. The small amount of sugar in the recipe helps balance this out. Don’t skip it!
• Overcooking the Okra: While you want the okra to be tender, overcooking it can cause it to become mushy. Be sure to keep an eye on the texture as it simmers.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stewed Okra and Tomatoes can be served as a side dish or main course, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some tips for serving and presenting this dish:

• Serve Over Rice: Spoon the stew over white rice or brown rice for a hearty, filling meal.
• With Cornbread: Serve with a side of warm, buttery cornbread to soak up all the delicious juices from the stew.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds color and flavor to the finished dish.
• Serve Family-Style: Present the dish in a large, rustic bowl for a family-style meal where everyone can help themselves.

How to Serve Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

Here are a few serving ideas to complement this Southern dish:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or any barbecued meat.
• On Its Own: This stew is hearty enough to be eaten on its own as a light vegetarian main dish. Add a slice of cornbread or a biscuit to round out the meal.
• With Grits: Serve over creamy grits for a comforting Southern twist.
• With Crusty Bread: Use crusty French bread to soak up the flavorful tomato-based broth.

Presentation Ideas for Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

Enhance the presentation of this classic dish with these simple ideas:

• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the stew directly from a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven for a rustic, Southern look.
• Top with a Lemon Slice: Garnish with a lemon slice to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Individual Bowls: Serve the stew in individual bowls with a side of cornbread muffins for a complete meal.

Stewed Okra and Tomatoes Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Okra: If possible, use fresh okra for the best texture and flavor. Frozen okra works as a substitute, but fresh okra will give you the best results.
• Balance the Acidity: Don’t forget to add a bit of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. If the stew still tastes too acidic, you can add a little more sugar or even a splash of cream.
• Don’t Overcook the Okra: Keep an eye on the okra while it’s simmering—cook it until it’s tender but still holds its shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make stewed okra and tomatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes! This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Q: Can I freeze stewed okra and tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze stewed okra and tomatoes in an airtight container for up to

3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Q: How do I reduce the sliminess of okra?
A: To reduce the sliminess of okra, cook it on low heat and avoid stirring too much. You can also briefly sauté the okra before adding it to the stew, which helps reduce the mucilage.

Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Absolutely! You can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.

Conclusion

This Stewed Okra and Tomatoes recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the South. With tender okra, juicy tomatoes, and savory seasonings, this dish is simple to make and full of comforting flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal or enjoy it as a main course with rice or cornbread, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, make it your own, and enjoy a taste of true Southern comfort food!

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