Savor the flavors of the South with Paula Deen's iconic Lady and Sons Okra and Tomatoes recipe—a comforting blend of tender okra, juicy diced tomatoes, and smoky bacon, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. This classic Southern side dish brings together fresh vegetables, aromatic seasonings, and a touch of sweetness for a balanced, flavorful experience. The recipe highlights a unique technique for reducing okra's natural sliminess, while crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. Ready in under an hour, this versatile dish is perfect as a hearty side or served over rice for a fulfilling main course. Bursting with vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s Southern comfort food at its finest!
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
Add the vegetable oil to the skillet. Once heated, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced okra to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to reduce the sliminess.
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Lower the heat to simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender.
Remove the lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the crispy bacon pieces and taste for seasoning, adjusting if necessary.
Serve hot as a side dish or over rice as a main course.
Calories |
799 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.4 g | 52% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.7 g | 53% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 4592 mg | 200% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.8 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.2 g | 90% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.0 g | ||
| Protein | 43.0 g | 86% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 634 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 7.6 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 3313 mg | 70% | |
*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.