Okra Gumbo

Ingredients

• 1 lb. fresh okra, cut in 1/2-inch slices
• drippings or oil
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove crushed garlic
• 3 to 4 tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped or 1 large can tomatoes, drained
• 1 can tomato paste
• 1 can water
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper
• 1 lb. shrimp
• 1 c. smoked ham, bacon or sausage, in thin slices