Stewed Okra And Tomatoes
A hearty and flavorful dish combining tender okra and sweet tomatoes, enhanced with corn and green pepper. Topped with crunchy cracker crumbs and a hint of margarine, this baked casserole offers a comforting taste of Southern-inspired cuisine, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine all ingredients in a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with additional cracker crumbs and dot with margarine.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or onion to the mix. If you need a gluten-free option, replace the cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. You can also use fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand, just adjust the cooking time as necessary. A dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This stewed okra and tomatoes dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. Consider drizzling some Sweet And Sour Sauce(For Corn Salad) on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure it's well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stewed Okra And Tomatoes contains roughly 830 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1205mg per serving (52% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use frozen okra! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish. Frozen okra retains a lot of flavor and works well in stews. Adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure everything is heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Certainly! Adding diced cooked sausage or ground beef can enhance the dish's heartiness. Just sauté the meat separately before mixing it with the vegetables and baking. Adjust the seasonings to balance the flavors, and enjoy a more robust version of this recipe.
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).