Smothered Okra

2 pounds fresh young okra
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
Salt and pepper
1 cup tomatoes, canned or fresh

Wash whole okra and dry thoroughly with paper towels. Slice into 1 /8- to 1/4-inch rounds. Saut? in oil over medium heat until okra stops "stringing," stirring frequently. This could take 20 to 30 minutes. Do not let it brown. Add onion and garlic and saut? until they soften. Add seasoning and tomatoes (and some juice too). Allow to simmer at least 10 minutes or longer.

Serves 6.