Okra Skillet

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Southern

A vibrant skillet dish featuring fresh okra, corn, pork, and tomatoes, blending savory and sweet flavors perfect for a hearty, Southern-inspired meal.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 lb fresh okra
  • 2 to 3 ears fresh corn
  • 1/4 cup finely cut-up lean pork
  • 1 medium onion
  • 4 medium tomatoes
  • dash of pepper
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare 2 cups sliced okra and coat in cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
  2. Coat okra in the meal mixture.
  3. Cut enough kernels from cooked corn to make a cup.
  4. Cook and stir pork and onion in a skillet until pork is golden.
  5. Stir in the coated okra.
  6. Cook for 3 minutes.
  7. Stir in tomatoes and corn.
  8. Cover and simmer until the corn is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  9. Stir in pepper before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best texture, select small, tender okra pods, and consider using frozen corn if fresh isn't available. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the pork with mushrooms or a plant-based protein. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add garlic or bell peppers for extra flavor. To enhance the dish further, pair with a refreshing drink like a Peach Bellini.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is excellent as a main course or a hearty side. Serve it alongside grilled meats or with a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Pork Nasube for a delightful culinary experience. For a complete feast, consider serving it with a refreshing drink like a Cheese Pine Cone.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Okra Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, but be cautious not to overcook the okra, as it can become mushy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Okra Skillet contains roughly 651 calories, with 20g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (261% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

651 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.9g 40% DV
Total Fat 20g 26% DV
Carbs 132.9g 48% DV
Fiber 72.9g 100% DV
Sugar 7.6g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 666.8mg 29% DV
Potassium 504mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 15.8mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 45.6mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 28.2mg 31% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 81.4mg 6% DV
Iron 5mg 28% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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, you can use frozen okra, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Frozen okra may have a different texture than fresh, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure it heats through evenly.

What can I substitute for the pork?

If you're looking for a substitute for the pork, consider using diced mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian option. You can also use crumbled tofu or a meat alternative to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer more spice.

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).

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