Okra, Creole Style
A flavorful Creole-style okra dish with tomatoes, onions, and green peppers, perfect for those seeking a hearty vegetarian option with bold Southern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt bacon fat in a frypan.
- Add sliced onion and minced green pepper.
- Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add okra and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes and simmer over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until okra is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the dish. If you can't find fresh okra, frozen okra works well as a substitute. Make sure to slice the okra into uniform pieces for even cooking. To balance the dish, you can add some diced tomatoes with green chilies for a little kick. This dish pairs beautifully with Pork Chops Indonesian With Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creole-style okra as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a topping for rice. It complements well with cornbread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Pork And Potato Casserole. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. This will help retain the okra's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra, Creole Style contains roughly 87 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% 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 tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used in place of canned tomatoes. Use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to allow them to break down and release their juices.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the onions and peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, and taste as you go to achieve the desired heat level.
What can I serve with this dish?
This Creole-style okra pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp. It also goes nicely with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or cornbread.
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).