Okra And Tomatoes(Country Style)
A hearty country-style dish featuring tender okra and tomatoes, accented with crispy bacon and onions, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crispy and drain on paper towels.
- In the bacon grease, fry the cut okra and sauté the onions until tender.
- Mash the whole tomatoes and add to the skillet.
- Crumble the crispy bacon and add to the mixture.
- Add sugar, salt, and red pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes, adding a little water when needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of lean bacon. If fresh okra is unavailable, frozen okra can be a suitable substitute. To reduce cooking time, you can pre-cook the okra in boiling water for a few minutes before adding it to the skillet. Adjust the sugar based on the acidity of the tomatoes; some brands can be quite tart.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or served over rice for a hearty meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or as a side dish with Pork recipes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a pop of color and freshness. For a complete meal, serve with a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Okra and Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra And Tomatoes(Country Style) contains roughly 172 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 700mg per serving (30% 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 make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing. To add flavor, consider incorporating smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky taste that bacon would provide.
How do I know when the okra is cooked properly?
The okra should be tender but still slightly firm, retaining its shape. Overcooking can lead to a slimy texture, so sauté it until it's just tender before adding the tomatoes. Keep an eye on the cooking time to achieve the best results.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative and can save time. Use a 16 oz. can of whole or diced tomatoes, but consider mashing them before adding to the skillet to achieve the desired consistency in your dish.
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).