If you are looking for a crunchy and flavorful Southern-style side dish, this Crispy Fried Okra recipe is a must-try. Coated with seasoned cornmeal and fried until golden, every bite has the perfect combination of a crispy outside and a tender inside.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh okra, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How to Make Crispy Fried Okra
1. Prepare the Okra
Wash the okra thoroughly and dry it completely with paper towels.
Slice into small pieces and place them in a bowl.
Pour the buttermilk over the okra, toss well, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the coating stick better.
2. Make the Crispy Coating
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
Mix well to create a flavorful coating.
3. Coat the Okra
Remove the okra from the buttermilk and place it into the cornmeal mixture.
Toss until every piece is evenly coated. Press lightly to help the coating stick.
4. Fry Until Golden
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the okra in small batches for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Fried Okra
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