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
Units
Scale
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
