Smothered Okra With Tomatoes
A savory Southern-style dish featuring tender okra cooked with tomatoes and spices, offering a flavorful, hearty side perfect for vegetable lovers and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, over high heat, heat the margarine and olive oil until very hot.
- Add the okra, salt, cumin, white pepper, and red pepper; stir constantly to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the okra is no longer slimy, then add the chopped tomato and paprika.
- Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking.
- When the okra starts to stick, scrape the bottom of the skillet with a spoon.
- Continue cooking and stirring until the okra turns a light brown color.
- Gradually stir in the water.
- Cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes longer, or until all the liquid has evaporated, stirring often.
Tips & Substitutions
To reduce the sliminess of okra, make sure to cook it over high heat and stir constantly. If you don't have fresh okra, frozen okra can be a good substitute, but adjust cooking time as needed. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor, or mix in some garlic for extra aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve smothered okra hot as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or rice. It pairs beautifully with Flavorize Favorite Fish Grill Or Broil for a complete meal. Also, consider adding a fresh salad or cornbread to round out your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving as this can make the okra mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smothered Okra With Tomatoes contains roughly 512 calories, with 24g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (86% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1957mg per serving (85% 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, but it may require different cooking times. Thaw it first to help minimize moisture and ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. Both options will complement the dish nicely without altering the overall taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based margarine and ensure all ingredients are plant-based. It’s a great option for anyone looking for vegan recipes that are hearty and satisfying.
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).