Fried Okra

Instructions

1. Prep the Okra:

  1. Wash and dry okra well (moisture makes it slimy).
  2. Slice into rounds.
  3. Place in a bowl and pour over buttermilk. Toss to coat and let sit for 10 minutes.

2. Make the Coating:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne.

3. Coat the Okra:

  1. Remove okra from buttermilk (let excess drip off).
  2. Toss in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.
  3. Spread coated okra on a tray for 5 minutes (helps crust stick).

4. Fry:

  1. Heat 2 inches of oil in a cast-iron skillet or deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry okra in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

5. Serve:

  • Serve hot, sprinkled with a little extra salt.
  • Perfect as a side with fried chicken, BBQ, or just as a crunchy snack with ranch or spicy dipping sauce.

Tips:

  • For extra crunchy okra, double-dip: buttermilk → cornmeal → buttermilk → cornmeal.
  • Air fryer option: Spray coated okra with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • The fresher the okra, the less slimy it will be.

👉 Do you want me to also share a Creole-style fried okra recipe that’s extra-spiced and perfect with gumbo?

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