A bowl of okra and tomatoes is a remarkable union of late-summer flavors that comes from using peak-season produce.
Served over rice, it’s a heartySouthern side dishthat can easily pull double duty as ameatless main dish.
While there are ways tominimize this slipperiness, you won’t even notice it in this dish.
Credit:Monica Farber/Southern Living
Let’s get started!
Can I Use Frozen Okra Instead of Fresh?
Fresh okra is the best bet for this recipe, but frozen will work in a pinch.
Credit: Monica Farber/Southern Living
Add it to the tomato mixture as directed in Step 3.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
The problem with fresh tomatoes is the peels.
Credit: Monica Farber/Southern Living
If you have homemade canned tomatoes that are already peeled, they would be delicious in this recipe!
Can I Leave Out the Bacon Drippings?
Ingredients
1lb.fresh okra
1/4cupbacon drippings
1mediumonion, chopped
1green bell pepper, chopped
128-oz.
Credit: PRO TIP: Bigger isn’t better when it comes to okra; smaller pods are more tender.
Cut the okra:
Cut the okra into 1/4-inch-thick slices, discarding the stems.
Add the tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, lemon, and okra.
Reduce heat to medium; cover and simmer 10 minutes.
Credit: Monica Farber/Southern Living
Make slurry:
Stir together the flour and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
Add to the okra mixture.
Cook, stirring constantly, 2 or 3 minutes or until thickened.
Credit:Monica Farber/Southern Living
Source
Recipe Revival: Southern Classics Reinvented for Modern Cooks (2016; Time Inc. Books)
Credit: Monica Farber/Southern Living
Credit: Monica Farber/Southern Living
