Smothered Okra
Dive into the soul-warming flavors of the South with this vibrant Smothered Okra recipe. Featuring tender fresh okra simmered alongside the holy trinity of Creole cuisine—onion, bell pepper, and celery—this dish is infused with the smoky depth of paprika, the herbaceous notes of thyme, and a subtle kick of cayenne for a perfectly balanced medley. Juicy canned diced tomatoes and a splash of broth create a luscious sauce that brings everything together, while fresh parsley adds a bright, finishing touch. Easy to prepare in just under an hour, this versatile recipe can be served as a hearty vegetarian main dish or paired with fluffy white rice for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, Smothered Okra is a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Southern charm on their plate. Keywords: Smothered Okra recipe, Southern okra dish, easy Creole recipes, vegetarian okra stew, comfort food with okra.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium, diced yellow onion
- 1 medium, diced green bell pepper
- 2 large, diced celery stalks
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 14.5-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish) fresh parsley
- 4 cups (optional, for serving) cooked white rice
Instructions
Rinse the okra under cold water. Pat dry with a kitchen towel. If desired, slice the okra into 1/2-inch pieces, or leave them whole for less slime production.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the okra to the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and their juices, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth.
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to coat the vegetables in the seasoning.
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Simmer the okra mixture for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the flavors meld together.
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Garnish the smothered okra with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Optional: Serve hot over cooked white rice for a hearty and comforting meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1706 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.9 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.0 g | 50% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 29.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 5774 mg | 251% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 270.2 g | 98% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.2 g | 140% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.4 g | ||
| Protein | 38.5 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 841 mg | 65% | |
| Iron | 16.5 mg | 92% | |
| Potassium | 4314 mg | 92% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
