Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

This is a classic southern dish.  If you are from the South you have probably eaten this dish more times than you can count.  It is especially popular during the summer when everyones garden is overflowing with okra and tomatoes.  This sucess of this depends on the quality of ingredients you use.  So if tomatoes are not in season it is much better to use canned tomatoes than fresh ones.  Since it is the middle of winter here obviously I am using canned tomatoes.

Stewed Okra and Tomatoes

5 strips of bacon, diced
1 onion, diced
35 oz can whole tomatoes, chopped 
1 tbs chicken base
2 cups okra, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
salt & pepper

In a dutch oven over a medium flame add the bacon and cook until it is crisp.  Then add the onion and cook until the onion starts to turn translucent.  Then add the canned tomatoes and the chicken base.  Season with 1 tsp of salt and a little black pepper.  Let this simmer for about 30 minutes. 

Add the okra and allow to simmer for an additional 30 minutes.  Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.  Serve over rice or with a piece of cornbread.