Fried Okra is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking and is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, deliciously crunchy, and offers a versatile flavor that can complement a variety of meals. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty side dish that’s sure to impress friends and family, even on the busiest of days.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Why Make Fried Okra
Fried Okra is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, making it a healthy addition to your diet. This dish is incredibly versatile; it can be a side, a snack, or a main dish when paired with protein. The crispy texture of Fried Okra perfectly balances the softness of the vegetable, creating a delightful contrast that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Fried Okra Step by Step
Ingredients
Fresh okra, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 cup cornmeal, ½ cup flour, Salt, Pepper
Directions
Start by washing and slicing the fresh okra into ½-inch pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. Toss the sliced okra in the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper together. Dredge the okra pieces in the cornmeal mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the coated okra until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels before serving.
How to Serve Fried Okra
Fried Okra pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside fried catfish for a classic Southern meal. It also makes an excellent appetizer when served with a zesty dipping sauce like remoulade or a tangy ranch dressing. For a light meal, add Fried Okra to a fresh salad for an extra crunch.
How to Store Fried Okra
To store leftover Fried Okra, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to reheat, use the oven or an air fryer to restore its crispiness. For long-term storage, you can freeze the uncooked, coated okra pieces on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Fried Okra
- Choose fresh, firm okra pods for the best texture.
- For an extra crunch, double-coat the okra by dipping it back into the egg mixture and then into the cornmeal mixture again.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; a drop of water should sizzle upon contact.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Experiment with seasonings in the cornmeal for unique flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations of Fried Okra
For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture. For an herbed flavor, mix dried thyme or oregano into the cornmeal. You can even create a citrus version by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the fried okra before serving, enhancing its natural flavors.
Fried Okra is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little crunch and joy to their meals. With its amazing flavor and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can seamlessly fit into your dinner rotation. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a side, Fried Okra is versatile and satisfying—give it a try today!
Fried Okra
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup Fresh okra Choose fresh, firm okra pods for the best texture.
Batter
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup flour
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by washing and slicing the fresh okra into ½-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
- Toss the sliced okra in the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper together.
Frying
- Dredge the okra pieces in the cornmeal mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the coated okra until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
