What is southern stewed okra and tomatoes?

Southern stewed okra and tomatoes is a traditional vegetable dish made by simmering fresh okra with tomatoes, onions, and simple seasonings. It’s commonly served as a side or light main dish in Southern cooking.

How do you cook fresh okra and tomatoes without slime?

To reduce slime, dry the okra thoroughly before cutting, sauté it briefly in oil, and add tomatoes early in the cooking process. The acidity of the tomatoes helps control okra’s natural mucilage.

Can you make stewed okra and tomatoes with shrimp?

Yes, stewed okra and tomatoes with shrimp is a popular variation. Shrimp is typically added near the end of cooking so it stays tender and doesn’t overcook.

What is the best okra and tomatoes recipe for beginners?

A simple recipe using fresh okra, canned or fresh tomatoes, onions, salt, and pepper is ideal for beginners. Keeping the ingredients minimal makes it easier to control flavor and texture.

What makes old fashioned stewed okra and tomatoes different?

Old fashioned stewed okra and tomatoes focuses on simplicity, slow cooking, and minimal seasoning. It relies on patience rather than spices to develop flavor.

Is there a creole okra and tomatoes recipe variation?

Yes, Creole versions often include garlic, bell peppers, spices, and sometimes seafood or sausage. These variations are bolder and influenced by Louisiana-style cooking.

Stewed Okra and Tomatoes: 7 Southern Tips for Perfect Flavor

Description

A timeless Southern comfort food, stewed okra and tomatoes brings together tender okra, ripe tomatoes, and savory aromatics in a richly seasoned stew. Perfect as a side or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh okra, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
2 cups fresh or canned diced tomatoes
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

Wash and thoroughly dry the okra. Trim the ends and slice into even pieces.
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add chopped onions (and garlic if using) and sauté until soft and translucent.
Add the sliced okra and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to reduce slime.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Notes

Use smaller okra pods for better texture. Drying the okra before slicing and sautéing helps reduce sliminess. Add shrimp in the last few minutes for a protein-packed variation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 90
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: southern stewed okra and tomatoes, okra recipe, old fashioned, tomato stew, southern cooking