Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
Southern Tomato & Okra Stew is a delightful dish that embodies the true flavors of the South. This stew is simple to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and offers a comforting taste that warms the soul. Perfect for busy days or cozy gatherings, this dish allows for customization to suit your palate.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Why Make Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
Southern Tomato & Okra Stew is not only delicious but also a healthy option loaded with nutrients from fresh vegetables. The combination of tomatoes and okra produces a hearty stew that is low in calories while being rich in dietary fiber, making it a great addition to any meal. Additionally, this stew is versatile; you can tweak it with various spices or even add proteins like chicken or shrimp to elevate the dish.
How to Make Southern Tomato & Okra Stew Step by Step
Ingredients
2 cups fresh okra, sliced (or 1 lb frozen)
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in the okra and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the okra is tender.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
Serve your Southern Tomato & Okra Stew with a side of cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh garden salad pairs nicely, adding a light crunch. For an added layer of flavor, top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
How to Store Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
Store any leftovers of Southern Tomato & Okra Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze this stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
- For added depth of flavor, choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- If you prefer a thick stew, simmer longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
- Experiment with different types of broth, such as chicken or seafood, for unique twists.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Don’t overcook the okra to maintain its texture; it should be tender but not mushy.
Delicious Variations of Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
For a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. To make it herbed, add fresh basil or thyme during cooking for a fragrant taste. If you’re craving something different, include citrus by adding lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors, or go vegetarian by adding chickpeas for extra protein.
Conclusion
Give Southern Tomato & Okra Stew a try for a meal that is not just full of flavor but also easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, this dish will surely impress and comfort.
Southern Tomato & Okra Stew
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in the okra and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the okra is tender.
- Serve hot.
