Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

 4 slices bacon, chopped small pieces

1 onion, chopped

3 cups sliced okra

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

kosher salt and ground black pepper

1.  In a heavy bottomed saute pan over medium-high heat, add the bacon.  Render the bacon until crisp.  Remove from pan and reserve.  Add the onion and saute until tender, about 3 minutes.

2.  Add the okra and tomatoes making sure to add the reserved juice from the tomatoes to the saute pan.  Season with salt and pepper and simmer for 15 minutes.

Note:  If needed, add water or chicken stock if the pan becomes too dry.

* can add 1 cup diced bell pepper (1 bell pepper), 1/2 cup diced celery (1 rib) and 1 tsp chopped garlic  (1 clove) to add more vegetables.  Also, 1 tsp fresh thyme, 1 pinch of cayenne and 1 pinch of cinnamon.  Might need 1/2 cup water too.

Serves 4