Southern Okra Medley with Corn and Tomatoes
This hearty Southern-inspired dish combines the flavors of fresh okra, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes into a vibrant medley. Perfect for showcasing summer produce, it's a delightful side dish or a standalone vegetarian meal. With its rich textures and comforting flavors, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also an excellent way to enjoy the bounty of your garden. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress with delicious, home-cooked goodness.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter or margarine
1 tablespoon (melted)
vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (none)
fresh okra
12 ounces (cut into thin rounds)
corn
2 ears (kernels cut off)
tomatoes
2 (chopped)
salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-size saucepan, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat until melted and hot.
2
Add the sliced okra to the pan, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes, until the okra becomes tender and no longer produces strings.
3
Next, add the corn kernels and chopped tomatoes to the pan, stirring to combine.
4
Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the saucepan, allowing the vegetables to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5
Once the vegetables are cooked through, season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper, adjusting the flavors as desired before serving.
6
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Okra Medley?
It is a hearty Southern-inspired side dish that combines fresh okra, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes into a vibrant, comforting vegetable medley.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The key ingredients are fresh okra, corn on the cob, tomatoes, butter or margarine, vegetable oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
How should the okra be prepared?
The okra should be washed and cut into thin rounds before cooking.
Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen okra, but fresh okra is recommended for the best texture and to better achieve the traditional Southern flavor.
How do I remove the corn kernels from the cob?
Hold the ear of corn upright and use a sharp knife to carefully slice downward, cutting the kernels off the cob.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Any ripe summer tomatoes, such as beefsteak or Roma tomatoes, work well. Ensure they are chopped before adding to the pan.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is naturally vegetarian as it consists entirely of vegetables, fats, and seasonings.
How long does it take to cook the okra?
The okra is first sautéed for 8-10 minutes, and then simmered with other vegetables for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Why do I need to sauté the okra for 8-10 minutes initially?
Sautéing the okra first helps it become tender and ensures it no longer produces strings, which improves the overall texture of the dish.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either butter or margarine depending on your dietary preference.
What type of oil is best for this medley?
A standard vegetable oil is recommended because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor.
How do I know when the vegetables are finished cooking?
The dish is ready when all vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, usually after about 15 minutes of simmering.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Adding chopped onions or bell peppers during the initial sautéing phase can add even more depth to the flavor.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the ingredients, this recipe typically serves 3 to 4 people as a side dish.
Is this Southern Okra Medley gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply replace the butter with additional vegetable oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
What are some serving suggestions?
It pairs excellently with fried chicken, cornbread, grilled fish, or as a standalone light vegetarian meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the cooked okra medley?
Yes, it can be frozen, though the texture of the tomatoes and okra may be slightly softer once thawed and reheated.
What is the best way to reheat the dish?
Reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave-safe dish for a quicker option.
Why is this dish associated with summer?
This recipe highlights summer produce like fresh okra, corn, and tomatoes when they are at their peak harvest and flavor.
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, you can substitute 2 ears of corn with about 1.5 cups of drained canned corn or frozen corn kernels.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (drained) can be used if fresh tomatoes are not available.
What extra spices can I add?
For more flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, peeling is not necessary for this recipe; simply chop them as they are.
How do I prevent the okra from being slimy?
Sautéing the okra in fat (butter and oil) over medium heat before adding liquid-heavy vegetables like tomatoes helps reduce sliminess.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the recipe only calls for salt and pepper, making it a mild and savory dish.
Can I add protein like bacon to this?
Yes, many Southern variations include rendered bacon bits or diced ham for added smoky flavor.
What herbs are best for garnishing?
Fresh parsley, chives, or even a bit of fresh basil make excellent garnishes for this medley.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense dish rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals provided by the fresh vegetables.