The fresh okra doesn't have a good, high nutrient value, so the normal canning loss wasn't too much of a threat. This is not too surprising when you note that the same geographical area of Louisiana was first peopled by Choctaw Indians, followed by the Spanish, Africans, Acadians from Nova Scotia and then the French. C over the ham hocks with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook 5 minutes. Remove the hocks and discard the water.
R emove the ham hocks, strain and reserve liquid.
Cut lean meat in shreds and discard all fat and bone. Skim off any surplus fat. Remove the shrimp and pour the liquid into the ham hock stock. I n a large saute pan, heat the oil and fry the onion, garlic and celery. After 2 minutes, add the tomato paste and cook 1 minute.