Okra Supreme

2 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 20 m Total: 30 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Okra is popular in the south, but many people aren’t sure how they feel about it. This recipe with bacon drippings, tomatoes, and melted cheese on top tasted so good that many non-believers were convinced. A great way to convert okra skeptics!

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 1/2 pound okra cut into 1/2 inch rounds
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 2 - 3 Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1 egg
  • bacon drippings
  • 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar or Pepper Jack Cheese
  • Tabasco (optional)
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Using medium heat, sauté okra and onion in small amount of bacon drippings until okra is crispy on the edges but tender, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Add chopped tomato and stir, cooking about 5 minutes until tomato softens and releases its juices.
  3. Mix in crushed crackers, stirring lightly and cook 5 more minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Add the whole egg onto the mixture and stir lightly until egg begins to set and congeal throughout the mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Pour the mixture out onto non-stick baking sheet and shape the mixture into a flat mound.
  6. Top with shredded cheese and broil 3-4 inches from heat until cheese melts and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my okra slimy?

A: Okra releases a natural mucilage when cooked. To minimize this, make sure you're cooking over medium heat with the bacon drippings and stirring occasionally but not constantly. The slightly higher heat and fat help reduce the sliminess. Cutting into rounds and sautéing (rather than boiling) also helps.

Q: Can I skip the broiling step?

A: Yes, but you'll miss out on the melted, golden cheese topping. If you don't have a broiler or prefer not to use it, you can cover the pan after adding cheese and let it melt over low heat, though it won't get the same golden-brown color on top.

Tips and Techniques

Use real bacon drippings for authentic flavor—it makes a huge difference over regular oil. If you prefer less slime from the okra, you can pre-roast the okra rounds in a 425°F oven for 15 minutes before starting the recipe, though this adds extra time.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • bacon drippings: butter or olive oil
  • Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella
  • Ritz crackers: Saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs
  • fresh okra: frozen okra, thawed and drained

Equipment Needed

  • cast iron skillet or non-stick pan for sautéing
  • non-stick baking sheet
  • broiler

Historical Context

Okra came to the American South through the African slave trade and became a cornerstone of Southern and Cajun cooking. While gumbo is the most famous okra dish, countless side dish preparations like this one showcase the vegetable’s versatility when paired with tomatoes, bacon, and cheese.