Okra with tomatoes

Okra with tomatoes – a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Okra with tomatoes is a vibrant and healthy dish, perfect for adding a splash of flavor to your meals. This quick and easy recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Follow the steps below and discover the secrets to achieving a perfect result!

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh okra
- 400 g ripe tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 2 medium onions
- 4 garlic cloves
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the okra:
1. Start by preparing the okra. Carefully trim the stems, making sure not to open them. This step is essential to keep the okra intact during cooking, thus preserving their crunchy texture. Once done, wash them well under cold running water and dry them slightly in the sun or with a clean towel.

2. Slice the onions julienne and mince the garlic cloves. These will add a deep flavor to the dish.

Preparing the tomato sauce:
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent.

4. Add the garlic and sweet paprika, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance the flavors and add a touch of warmth to the dish.

5. Now it’s time to add the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, dice them and add them to the skillet. If you choose the canned version, make sure to drain them well beforehand. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices and form a sauce.

Cooking the okra:
6. Add the okra to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them with the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This step will help the okra cook evenly while maintaining their crunchy texture.

7. Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a spicy note, you can also add a pinch of chili powder.

Serving:
8. Serve the okra with tomatoes hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This dish can be enjoyed alongside a serving of rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Original suggestion: You can also add some black olives for a Mediterranean flavor or replace the tomatoes with spicy tomato sauce for an extra kick.

This okra with tomatoes recipe is not only easy to make but also healthy, packed with nutrients. It is ideal for serving at lunch or dinner, being an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its enticing aromas!

 Ingredients: 1/2 kg okra, about olive oil 1 large onion 3 cloves of garlic 1 large bell pepper 1 glass of tomato juice salt, pepper 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)