Okra and Tomatoes
Okra and Tomatoes is a hearty Southern vegetable side dish made with fresh okra, tomatoes, onions, and garlic.It features tender vegetables simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce.Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.Perfect as a side dish or light vegetarian meal.Naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.A comforting recipe that celebrates fresh garden produce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced (or 2 cups canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Wash and slice the fresh okra.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the okra, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and sugar.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and stir well.
- Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with cornbread, rice, or your favorite Southern main dish.
Notes
- Fresh okra delivers the best texture and flavor.
- Frozen okra can be used without thawing.
- Ripe tomatoes provide natural sweetness.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain the okra's texture.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- Add bacon for a richer Southern-style version.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Serve with cornbread for a complete Southern meal.