Okra and Tomatoes

Tender baby okra, ripe tomatoes, sweet onion and a simple spice blend; Okra & Tomatoes is a classic Southern recipe that has been cooked for several generations in my family.

Okra and tomatoes was something normal in my household. Frequently prepared on Saturdays or Sundays is was a simple and satisfying dish. It was also something that I heard about my grandmothers and great-grandmothers making and so when I make it in my kitchen, no matter how simple the recipe, it still feels so special.

Here’s the recipe:

Okra & Tomatoes

• 1/2 TBSP olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 3/4 cup chopped plum tomatoes
• 1.5 cups fresh baby okra (or the smallest size that you can find)
• spice blend: salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, red pepper flakes)*
• 1/2 cup water

*Note: this was not an exact measurement but moreover to taste.

Preparation:

Wash the okra and cut off the tips and top “crown” of the okra (where the stem was).

Add the olive oil and chopped onion to a frying pan and sautee until the onions are tender.

Then add the spice blend and sautee just until the spices become fragrant.

Then add the tomatoes and okra and half of the water, stir and cover.

Simmer the okra and tomatoes on medium low heat, checking occasionally to add more water. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the okra is tender. 

Remove from heat and serve immediately.

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