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Shrimp and Okra Stew

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Shrimp and okra stew is a comforting, flavorful dish combining tender shrimp with earthy okra in a savory, spiced broth. It’s perfect for any occasion, offering a hearty combination of seafood, vegetables, and spices.

Ingredients

  1. 1 tablespoon olive oil
    1 medium onion, chopped
    1 bell pepper, chopped
    2 celery stalks, chopped
    3 garlic cloves, minced
    1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    1 teaspoon ground thyme
    1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
    1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
    4 cups seafood or chicken broth
    1 lb fresh or frozen okra, sliced
    1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
    1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
    Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

  1. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are well combined.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and seafood or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Add Okra: Add the sliced okra to the pot and stir. Let the stew simmer for another 10 minutes, until the okra is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the okra from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the stew, stirring gently to incorporate. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  5. Finish the Stew: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. For a bright finish, squeeze in the juice of one lemon and give the stew a final stir.
  6. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • This stew can be made ahead of time, and the flavors improve as it sits. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a spicier version, feel free to add more cayenne pepper, chopped fresh chili peppers, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian stew, replace shrimp with additional beans or vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or beans such as kidney beans or chickpeas.
  • If you don’t have okra, you can substitute with green beans or zucchini, though the texture and flavor will be different.
  • While this stew doesn’t freeze well, it can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal the next day.

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