Creole Okra
A flavorful Southern dish featuring tender okra simmered with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, perfect for those who enjoy hearty, vegetable-based comfort food with a Creole flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut okra into 3/4-inch pieces.
- Chop onion and bell pepper.
- Saute onion and bell pepper until tender in oil.
- Add stewed tomatoes, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and okra.
- Stew on low heat in a skillet or bake in oven until okra is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or shrimp to the dish. If fresh okra is unavailable, frozen okra works just as well. To reduce slime, avoid stirring the okra too much during cooking. Using a mix of yellow and green bell peppers can add a nice color contrast. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper or substitute Ro-Tel with a spicier variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creole Okra over a bed of rice or alongside cornbread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of Vegan recipes. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Okra contains roughly 276 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1614mg per serving (70% 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 fresh okra instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh okra is a great choice for this recipe. Just be sure to wash and cut it into 3/4-inch pieces before adding it to the dish. Fresh okra tends to have a firmer texture and may require slightly longer cooking time to become tender.
What can I substitute for Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If you don't have Ro-Tel tomatoes on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes mixed with some chopped jalapeños or green chilies for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, plain diced tomatoes with a sprinkle of chili powder can also work well.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Creole Okra recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following a vegan diet. You can enhance the dish by adding more vegetables or serving it with a vegan protein source for a heartier meal.
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).