Smothered Okra with Shrimp is a classic Southern dish, rich in flavor and steeped in tradition. This recipe combines fresh okra, succulent shrimp, and a medley of bold seasonings for a dish that is both hearty and soulful. The slow-cooking “smothering” technique ensures tender vegetables and a deeply flavorful sauce, making this recipe a perfect showcase of Southern culinary heritage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Loaded with Cajun seasoning, tomatoes, and spices for a bold, savory taste.
Hearty and Satisfying: Combines tender okra with succulent shrimp for a complete meal.
Rooted in Tradition: A true celebration of Southern cooking techniques and flavors.
Versatile: Serve it over rice or grits for a comforting and complete dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds colossal raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound fresh okra, cut
5 vine or Roma tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
½ cup onions, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic paste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups water
3 bay leaves
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Peel and devein the shrimp, then set them aside in the refrigerator until needed.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and garlic paste, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

3. Cook the Tomatoes and Okra

Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Stir in the okra and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften and release its juices.

4. Add Seasonings and Simmer

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, dried parsley, dried basil, ground ginger, cumin, coarse black pepper, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
Pour in the water and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the flavors meld together.

5. Add the Shrimp

Stir in the shrimp and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.

6. Serve

Remove the bay leaves and serve the smothered okra with shrimp over cooked rice or grits.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add chickpeas or mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Twist: Increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for more heat.
Tomato-Free Version: Omit the tomatoes and tomato paste for a lighter, less acidic dish.
Seafood Mix: Include crab meat or crawfish tails alongside the shrimp for extra seafood flavor.
Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh thyme or chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Freeze the dish (without the shrimp) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked shrimp after reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before adding them to the dish.

2. How do I prevent okra from becoming slimy?

Cooking the okra at a steady simmer and avoiding excessive stirring can help minimize slime.

3. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute with one 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes for convenience.

4. What’s the best side dish for smothered okra with shrimp?

Serve over rice, grits, or even a slice of cornbread for a complete meal.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish without the shrimp, then add the shrimp and cook just before serving.

6. Is it necessary to use Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is traditional, but you can substitute with Creole seasoning or your preferred spice blend.

7. Can I add sausage to the dish?

Absolutely! Sliced andouille sausage is a great addition to enhance the smoky flavor.

8. Is fresh okra required?

Fresh okra is ideal, but frozen okra works as a substitute. Add it directly to the skillet without thawing.

9. Can I use other seafood?

Yes, scallops or firm white fish can be used instead of or alongside shrimp.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Smothered Okra with Shrimp is a timeless Southern dish that brings together the best of seafood and fresh produce. This flavorful recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or when you want to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort at home. Serve it over rice or grits for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!