This smothered okra and shrimp recipe is a soulful Southern classic that’s full of bold flavors and authentic charm. Fresh okra, succulent shrimp, and a medley of aromatic spices are slow-cooked to perfection, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Serve it as a hearty main dish with rice or cornbread for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Southern Flavor: A classic blend of Cajun seasoning and spices brings this dish to life.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh produce, lean protein, and bold flavors.
- Slow-Cooked Perfection: The flavors meld beautifully as the dish simmers, creating a rich and hearty meal.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs colossal raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
- 5 vine or Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Seasonings and Spices
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp coarse black pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 3 bay leaves
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- Peel and devein the shrimp, then season them lightly with 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Okra and Tomatoes
- Add the sliced okra to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, to reduce the sliminess.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until combined.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Simmer
- Add the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, cumin, ginger, basil, parsley, and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, stirring them into the mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and serve the smothered okra and shrimp hot over rice or with a side of cornbread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Protein Options: Swap the shrimp with chicken, sausage, or a combination for a different protein base.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and add diced eggplant or mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, celery, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
- Less Heat: Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or use extra Cajun seasoning for more spice.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. How do I reduce the sliminess of okra?
Cooking the okra over medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid helps reduce its sliminess. You can also soak the sliced okra in vinegar for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry before cooking.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it over steamed white rice, brown rice, or alongside cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
4. Can I make this recipe without tomatoes?
While tomatoes add richness, you can substitute them with 1 cup of tomato sauce or omit them entirely for a lighter flavor.
5. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level. Adjust the red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
6. Can I cook this dish in advance?
Yes, this dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
7. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, substitute with a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
8. What’s the best type of shrimp to use?
Colossal or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe, but you can use medium-sized shrimp if preferred.
9. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, sauté the onions and okra first, then transfer everything except the shrimp to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the shrimp during the last 20-30 minutes.
10. How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the dish simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and stir it into the sauce.
Conclusion
Smothered Okra and Shrimp is a soulful, hearty dish that brings Southern comfort to your table. With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Serve it over rice or with cornbread for an unforgettable meal!
Print
Flavorful Smothered Okra and Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Smothered Okra and Shrimp recipe is a soulful Southern classic! With fresh okra, succulent shrimp, and bold spices, this slow-cooked dish bursts with authentic flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Seafood:
- 2 lbs colossal raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Produce:
- 1 lb fresh okra (trimmed and sliced)
- 5 vine or Roma tomatoes (diced)
- 1/2 cup onions (chopped)
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp ground ginger
Canned Goods:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Condiments:
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
Baking & Spices:
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp coarse black pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp cumin
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Liquids:
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Prepare the Okra:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced okra and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the slimy texture diminishes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Add onions and garlic paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices (Cajun seasoning, basil, parsley, cumin, ginger, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes). Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Simmer the Base:
- Add the sautéed okra back to the skillet, followed by the bay leaves and water. Stir well to combine.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the mixture has thickened.
- Add the Shrimp:
- Stir in the shrimp and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Serve:
- Remove bay leaves before serving. Serve hot over steamed white rice or with crusty bread.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, substitute water with chicken or seafood stock.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern