Southern Okra & Tomatoes

179068691

Some like it fried, sauteed with onions or boiled. Here's a new recipe to help build stronger bodies and healthier hearts!

Did you know that the pods inside okra compose healthy amounts of vitamin A, and flavonoid anti-oxidants such as beta-carotene, xanthin and lutein. It is one of the vegetables with highest levels of these anti-oxidants. These compounds are known to have antioxidant properties and are essential for vision. Vitamin A is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural vegetables and fruits rich in flavonoids helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

Here's a quick recipe:

Prep Time: 20 Min
Cook Time: 35 Min
Servings per: 4

Ingredients
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onions, chopped
• 1 medium green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 Celery, stalk, fresh, medium, chopped, with leaves
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup water
• ½ tsp white all purpose flour• 14 1/2oz canned unsalted diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper, coarsley ground
• 12oz fresh okra

Directions
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add in the onions, green peppers, celery, and garlic. Saute until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes, stir often.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth, set aside.

3. Stir into the pan of vegetables, the tomatoes with juice, parsley, salt, pepper, flour mixture, and okra. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until okra is tender, about 15 minutes, stir often.

4. Serve over rice!