Guingambó Guisado (Stewed Okra)

Okra has a rich history in southern and Caribbean cooking.  This recipe found on the Hot, Cheap, and Easy food blog is a classic Puerto Rican okra stew made with ham (you can also substitute bacon!).  Serve this stew over white rice for a simple delicious meal.

Ingredients:
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ cup onion, chopped fine
¼ cup red pepper, chopped
1 Tbsp garlic, minced
¼ cup jamón de cocinar (or ham steak) diced
1-2 Tbsp sofrito (commercial or homemade) or 1-2 Tbsp of minced green/red hot pepper and cilantro
1 pound okra, cut in strips or ½” rounds
4 cups water
Salt to taste

Procedure:

1. Heat the oil and sauté all ingredients except for the okra, water, and salt until tender and fragrant.
2. Add the okra and water, bring to a boil, then lower and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Salt to taste and serve with white rice.