Okra and Tomatoes
The ultimate comfort food, Okra and Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy dish perfect for summer. Bursting with fresh ingredients, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome meal. Make it tonight and savor the taste of home!
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 14.5 ounce canned tomatoes
- 2 cups okra, cleaned and cut into 1″ slices
- kosher salt
- ground black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-low heat. This will ensure that the oil is hot enough to sauté the onion without burning it.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes tender and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. You want it to soften and caramelize slightly to bring out its natural sweetness.
- Next, add the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Be sure to watch it carefully, as garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes, including their juices. This will create a rich sauce that will coat the okra beautifully.
- Introduce the sliced okra to the pan, stirring gently to combine everything. The okra will soak up the flavors from the tomatoes and other ingredients.
- Allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes. This will give the okra enough time to become tender while the flavors meld together.
- As the dish simmers, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This also helps to ensure that the okra cooks evenly.
- Once the okra is tender, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; this step is crucial for enhancing the flavors!
- Once seasoned, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and intensify.
- Serve warm as a side dish or as a main course. Enjoy the comforting warmth of Okra and Tomatoes with your favorite meal!
Notes
Here are some helpful notes for making the most out of Okra and Tomatoes. These tips will help you enhance the dish and ensure a perfect cooking experience!
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: You can freeze Okra and Tomatoes for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe bags.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.
- Serving Temperature: Okra and Tomatoes can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great dish for gatherings.
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and divide it into portions for easy lunches during the week.