Are you a lover of okra too? Definitely another southern favorite for us veggie lovers that’s made in a variety of ways depending on the household. For the ingredients, when they are available, absolutely use sweet Vidalia onions. Okra can be fresh or frozen, it is always better to have it fresh. I keep it pretty simple from there, tomatoes – fresh if you have ’em, canned and diced if not – a little bit of garlic and a few simple seasonings (see ingredients listed below.
Smothered Okra with Stewed Tomatoes and Onions
- 1 lb okra (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 16 ounce can whole tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped)
- 3/4 teaspoon chopped garlic
- salt and pepper
Cajun Spice Mix Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Pour oil in bottom of pan. Add the remaining ingredients.
- Cover pot and simmer 1 1/2 hours on low, stirring often. It will be slimy at first but after cooking the sliminess will disappear. Add splashes of water if it begins to stick too much. the okra should “brown” a little bit at the bottom of the pot. This is good as it gives a wonderful smoky flavor and caramelization to the dish.
- Remove the cover the last 10 minutes. Add dash of cajun spices if desired.
Cajun Spice Mix Directions
- Stir together salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container.