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A close-up of Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes in a rustic bowl.

Southern Comfort Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

This Southern-inspired dish features tender okra and succulent shrimp simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, seasoned with aromatic spices for a comforting and flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 pound fresh okra trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds (If using frozen, no need to trim, just slice.)
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a lovely smoky depth
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or more, to taste, for a kick!
  • 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined (medium or large)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving

  • Fresh parsley or green onions chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked rice or crusty bread for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the sliced okra and minced garlic, then increase heat to medium-high. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the okra browns and loses sliminess.
  • Pour in undrained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until okra is tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper and add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook, stirring gently, for 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook them.

Serving

  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot over cooked rice or with crusty bread.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the cayenne for an added kick. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the okra against the sides of the skillet during the last few minutes of simmering. This dish is also delicious with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.