Okra And Tomato 1930 Depression Dish
A comforting early 20th-century dish combining tender okra and ripe tomatoes, seasoned simply and perfect for those seeking hearty, vegetable-forward meals with a nostalgic touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onions in a skillet until translucent.
- Add the chopped okra and cook for about 10 minutes until well blended.
- Add the chopped tomatoes or canned tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture until the okra is tender and flavors meld.
- Optionally, stir in a small amount of flour to thicken the dish.
- Serve hot, ideally with corn bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh tomatoes when in season, but canned tomatoes can be a great substitute in winter months. If you prefer a slightly spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. To enhance the texture, you can sauté the okra separately before adding it to the mixture, which helps reduce its sliminess. This dish can also be made as a vegan recipe by omitting any added meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the okra and tomato dish hot, ideally paired with cornbread for a comforting meal. This dish can also accompany grilled meats or serve as a hearty side dish at a barbecue. For a complete American recipes experience, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Lemon-Apricot Salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra and tomato mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture if it has thickened too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra And Tomato 1930 Depression Dish contains roughly 215 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen okra can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture. The cooking time might be slightly reduced since frozen okra is often pre-cooked.
What can I substitute for tomatoes if I don't have any?
If you don't have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used as a substitute. You can also try tomato paste mixed with a bit of water for a thicker consistency. Adjust the seasoning as needed since canned products can be saltier.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your okra and tomato dish, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference as it cooks.
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).