Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Name: Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound okra, sliced; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tomatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jack

Update : December 20, 2025

Delicious Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes served in a bowl

Why Make This Recipe

Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the taste of the South right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner with family or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender okra, juicy shrimp, and fresh tomatoes creates a flavorful dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. It is not only easy to make, but it also comes together in just one skillet, making clean-up a breeze!

How to Make Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Ingredients

1 pound okra, sliced
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tomatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
Stir in the okra and cook for about 5 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
Finally, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Serve this dish hot right from the skillet. It pairs well with rice or cornbread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for about 2-3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over low heat or microwave it until heated through.

Tips to Make Smothered Okra with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Choose fresh okra for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference. You can leave it out for a milder dish or add more for extra heat.
For a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable broth or seafood stock for the chicken broth.

Variation

You can modify this recipe to include other vegetables like zucchini or squash, or even add in some cooked sausage for added flavor. If you prefer, you can use different types of seafood, such as crab or scallops.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen okra?
Yes, you can use frozen okra. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water instead. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth, and add additional vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas to keep it hearty.