While it might not be as well known as other produce on American shelves, such as corn and potatoes, okra has a rich, long-standing legacy in this country. Today, it's a staple in Southern restaurants and a popular treat in Cajun cuisine. Dive into the guide below to learn more about this vegetable's history and its cultural relevance.

History of Okra

While the origins of okra are unknown, it is believed to have come from Ethiopia. The vegetable then went on to gain popularity throughout North Africa and the Middle East. During the 1700s, it spread through the U.S. and Western Europe through the Slave Trade. At the beginning of its arrival in North America, okra was cooked and eaten, and its seeds were toasted and ground up as an alternative to coffee beans. When this food item gained popularity in Louisiana, people used the juice inside the pod as a thickener for stews like gumbo.

Cultural Importance

It's no coincidence that okra is often associated with the Southern United States. The vegetable was introduced to the U.S. by West Africans, as it was one of the only crops they were allowed to bring. When slave owners withheld food, enslaved people relied on their personal okra gardens.

People from different West African nations had their own ideas and techniques for making and enjoying this vegetable. They managed to continue those cultural traditions while under the oppression of colonization and slavery. In restaurants today, okra is not just a delicious dish but a symbol of this dark and complicated history, the resilience of African customs, and the ingenuity of African American chefs.

Popular Okra Dishes

Today, you'll find okra cooked in various unique ways. You might order the seed pods battered and tossed in a blend of Cajun spices or sauces, perfect for eating as a side of the main seafood dish. You might also find the vegetable steeped in a rich gumbo, alongside aromatic additions like onions and celery, as well as filling meats like chicken, Andouille sausage, or crawfish tails.

If you're craving the mouthwatering taste of okra, head to Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill of Creve Couer, MO, and Edwardsville, IL and the newest location in St Peters. This popular local eatery serves seafood with a Cajun flair, including classic dishes like jambalaya, lobster bisque, and crawfish gumbo. In addition to their dine-in restaurant in Edwardsville, they also offer catering services and food trucks, so you can enjoy their quality coastal cuisine wherever you're celebrating. To learn more about their okra menu items, visit the website, or call (314) 878-3306 today to place an order.