Corn and Okra Creole

This favorite Louisianian side dish of corn and okra features the Creole flavor trinity of green bell pepper, celery and onion—and the ever present tomato, as well.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups fresh white or yellow corn kernels, about 3 ears (or use frozen)
1/2 cup water
2 medium tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried whole thyme
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Pinch ground red pepper or to taste
1 1/2 cups sliced okra

Cooking Directions:

1. In a large skillet, sauté green pepper, onion and celery in butter until crisp-tender. Add corn and water; cover and cook for 10 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Add tomatoes and remaining ingredients, except okra. Cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the okra; cover and simmer for 5 minutes or until okra is tender.

Makes 6 servings.