Okra Stew
A hearty and flavorful okra stew with ground beef, tomatoes, and seasonings, perfect for comforting meals and pairs well with cornbread. Suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Set aside and pour off excess fat if necessary.
- Combine okra, chopped onion, canned tomatoes, and tomato sauce in a Dutch oven or large saucepan.
- Saute the vegetable mixture for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked ground beef and seasonings to the vegetables, mixing well.
- Simmer over medium heat for about 20 additional minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your okra stew, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or incorporating diced bell peppers for added sweetness. Fresh garlic can also replace garlic powder for a more robust taste. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, making it a hearty dish that fits well into American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This okra stew is delicious served over a bed of rice or with warm cornbread on the side, creating a comforting meal. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables can complement it nicely. Pairs beautifully with Baked Rice Casserole for a complete family dinner that satisfies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover okra stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra Stew contains roughly 276 calories, with 6g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1763mg per serving (77% 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 a convenient substitute. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the stew to prevent sogginess. It will still deliver great flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the stew for a spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced potatoes to the stew for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all vegetables are tender.
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).