I think okra is something you either love or hate. I am definitely an okra lover; however, it is a bit of a pain to prepare. Since fresh okra gets extremely slimy when cut into, I typically prefer to use frozen chopped okra instead. Nonetheless, I received a bag of fresh okra last week from my friend, Peggy’s, CSA (community-shared-agriculture). Even though Michael wanted me to fry them up, I opted for a healthier and less messy option – stewed okra and tomatoes. I grew up in the south, and this dish practically screams south :)! I love serving this side dish with fish or meat. It’s such a great accompaniment to almost any meal.

Okra, also known as “lady finger,” has many health benefits too. It’s very low in calories and has zero cholesterol. It is also an excellent source of fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and D. So go ahead and pick up a pound of okra the next time you see them at the farmer’s market or grocery store! These pods not only taste good, but they’re good for you too! Continue reading →