| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 50 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 8g | 1.5g | 38g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 6g | 18g | 1.3g |
Discovering Okra and Tomato Creole Stew
As someone who’s had the pleasure of growing up amidst the Midwestern heartland, my taste buds have always been familiar with flavors that are comforting, warm, and remind me of home. My recent culinary experiment, the Okra and Tomato Creole Stew, has become a unifying blend of that heartland essence with a feisty Creole spirit. 
Evolving Taste Palates
While I’ve spent a majority of my life perfecting recipes like corn casseroles and beef stews, the joy of cooking lies in its ability to evolve and experiment. Hence, when I first discovered this deliciously tantalizing stew, reminiscent of authentic Creole cuisine, I knew I had found an extraordinary fusion that’s not only comforting but also incredibly flavorful. Combined with my ingrained love for farm-to-table freshness, this hearty and robust Okra and Tomato Creole Stew has quickly become a household favorite.
Packed with Nutritional Goodness
Beyond its tantalizing symphony of flavors, what enhances my love for this stew is its wealth of health benefits. Okra, a key ingredient and a nutritional powerhouse, provides several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are packed with antioxidants like lycopene known for their cancer-fighting properties. Shrimp, packed with lean, protein along with selenium, an important mineral for thyroid health, adds not just a oomph but also a healthful kick to the recipe. What’s more, the olive oil used in the recipe is full of monounsaturated fats, often referred to as good fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels when used in moderation. Here is a fantastic read on the health benefits of olives and olive oil.
A Dish that Complements Many
The versatility of this Okra and Tomato Creole Stew is something worth mentioning. This dish pairs well with a variety of grains, including the classic southern-style cornbread or a simple side of rice. It’s a wonderful addition to the dinner table when you’re hosting a Creole-themed night or simply wanting a change from everyday cuisine. Its unique blend of flavors will remind you of dishes like Gumbo or Etouffee, classic Creole goodies, while still retaining its unique allure.
As an avid cook and a faithful member of my church community, breaking bread with my loved ones is a joy I strive to share with each recipe. This Okra and Tomato Creole Stew is another testimony to my culinary journey – comforting, flavorful, and an honest expression of the harmony that can exist between diverse cuisines and ingredients.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb okra, trimmed and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, bell pepper, and celery, and sauté until they begin to soften.
Step Two
Add the garlic and cook for a further minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step Three
Stir in the okra, then the chopped tomatoes. Allow to cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
Step Four
Add the Creole seasoning, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves to the pot and stir to combine. Add the vegetable broth and hot sauce, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes.
Step Five
Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the okra is tender.
Step Six
Serve the stew hot over rice, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
