Fried Okra And Tomatoes
A savory Southern dish featuring crispy fried okra combined with tender, crushed tomatoes, ideal for those who enjoy hearty, vegetable-based comfort foods with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the sliced okra in bacon drippings or vegetable oil until browned, folding lightly without mashing.
- Drain the fried okra well.
- Drain the tomatoes from the can and crush them.
- Return the drained okra to the pan.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes over the okra and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring lightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers while frying the okra. If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil instead of bacon drippings. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the okra to achieve a crispy texture. If you want a spicier dish, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Fried Okra and Tomatoes can be served as a delightful side dish or main course. It pairs beautifully with Pork Spareribs With Kraut or can be enjoyed alongside cornbread and Fresh Greens for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the okra and tomato mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quick option, but this may make the okra less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Okra And Tomatoes contains roughly 101 calories, with 6g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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, but it's best to thaw and drain it thoroughly before frying to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen okra may not have the same crunch as fresh, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes work well for this dish. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use ripe varieties such as Roma or vine-ripened. Just remember to peel and chop them before adding to the okra.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the bacon drippings with vegetable oil or olive oil. You can also add a splash of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor if desired. This way, you can enjoy the dish while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
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).