Okra in tomato sauce is one of the most characteristic and delicious dishes of summer. I am sure, of course, that many people will disagree, as okra is one of the most misunderstood vegetables, with devoted fans as well as sworn enemies. I will not try to convince the latter by listing its health benefits, for the simple reason that if you do not like something, you do not eat it. End of story!

All I will say is that, when cooked properly and with care, okra can truly surprise you. Because okra, my friends, does not tolerate rough treatment. It needs pampering and a little sweet-talking to become truly irresistible!

🎬 Watch the full recipe video on YouTube and subscribe to my channel for more delicious recipes!
English subtitles are available.

🛒Ingredients

• 🫛 500 g okra
• 🫒 1/4 cup olive oil
• 🧅 1 onion, finely chopped
• 🌶️ 1 red Florina pepper, finely chopped, optional
• 🍅 2 ripe tomatoes, grated, or 1 cup tomato passata
• 🌿 1 cup finely chopped parsley
• 🥄 3 tbsp vinegar
• 🧂 Salt and pepper
• 🥄 A little sugar, optional, if using fresh tomatoes

👩‍🍳Instructions

Wash the okra thoroughly in plenty of water, handling it gently, and drain. Using a small, sharp knife, carefully trim around the stem of each okra pod to form a small cone. Be careful not to cut too deeply and expose the inside, as this will cause the okra to release its sticky liquid during cooking. Once cleaned, sprinkle the okra with 1 tsp of the salt and drizzle with the vinegar. Toss very gently and leave it to rest for about one hour.

Heat the olive oil in a wide saucepan. Add the finely chopped onion and the Florina pepper, if using, and sauté over medium heat until softened.

Add the grated tomatoes or tomato passata and the finely chopped parsley. If you are using fresh tomatoes and they are rather acidic, add a little sugar if desired. Season carefully with salt and pepper, remembering that the okra has already been salted, and allow the sauce to cook for a few minutes.

Add the okra and pour in just enough water to cover it. Simmer over low heat until the okra is tender and the sauce has thickened. Do not stir with a spoon during cooking, as the okra may break apart. Instead, gently shake the saucepan by its handles and check occasionally, adding a little more hot water if necessary.

Keep in mind…

🔸 If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they are very ripe and sweet so they produce a rich, flavourful sauce.

🔸 If you have prepared my homemade tomato sauce, you do not need to add the Florina pepper, as the sauce already contains some.

🔸 You can enjoy this dish throughout the year by using frozen okra.

🔸 Okra in tomato sauce calls for feta and plenty of fresh bread for dipping! If you would prefer a more filling meal without being tempted by the bread, try my Chicken with Okra in Tomato Sauce. It is absolutely delicious!

Enjoy!
Nanà…✍️