Bahamian Okra and Salt Pork
A hearty and traditional Bahamian stew featuring tender okra, savory salt pork, and aromatic seasonings, often served as a side dish or a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Salt Pork(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 lbs Okra(trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 14.5 oz Tomatoes(diced, undrained)
- 2 cups Water or Fish Broth
- 1 tsp Thyme(dried, or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 3 whole Allspice Berries
- 1/2 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper(freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the salt pork over medium heat until browned and rendered, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the salt pork with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- 2
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the sliced okra, diced tomatoes (with their juice), water or fish broth, thyme, and allspice berries. Bring to a simmer.
- 4
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
Return the cooked salt pork to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the allspice berries before serving.
- 6
Serve hot, often with rice or as a side dish to fish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce the sliminess of the okra, you can sauté it briefly in a separate pan before adding it to the stew.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the okra against the side of the pot.
- ✓Ensure the salt pork is well-rendered to impart its flavor into the dish.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Include a chopped bell pepper along with the onion.
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality fish broth.