Heat oil in skillet. Add okra. Cover and cook slowly 30-40 minutes
until
okra is tender.
In Dutch oven sear seasoned chicken in 3 tablespoons
oil
until brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
In remaining oil add
flour,
stirring constantly until brown roux forms. Add onion, celery,
bell
pepper and garlic. Cook on low heat until onions are transparent.
Add
tomatoes. Cook until well blended. Add okra, chicken, water or
stock,
salt, red and black pepper. Cover. Cook over medium heat 2 1/2
to 3
hours or until chicken is tender. More water may need to be added.
If
desired, add sausage to gumbo during the last 30 minutes.
Serve
over
cooked rice.