Bernadine'S Okra Dressing
A hearty Southern dish combining tender okra, smoked sausage, bacon, ham, ground meat, and rice for a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook okra in oil until the slime is out.
- Saute onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Cut sausage, bacon, and ham into small pieces and cook partially.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
- Cook ground pork or beef until no pink remains.
- Combine all ingredients and cook for an additional 45 minutes on medium to low heat.
- Add cooked rice to desired consistency and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
To reduce the slime from the okra, cook it in hot oil until it begins to brown. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with additional vegetables or plant-based sausages. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. This dish pairs well with Southern Veggies Over Rice for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this okra dressing hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions. It makes a great main dish or side, perfect alongside cornbread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Spicy Red Beans for a delightful flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bernadine'S Okra Dressing contains roughly 325 calories, with 14g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1641mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen okra can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to minimize moisture, which can contribute to slime. Cook it until heated through before combining with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for the smoked sausage?
You can substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish. If you're looking for more flavor, consider adding smoked paprika to the recipe to mimic the depth of flavor that sausage provides.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).