Description
A classic Southern Fried Okra recipe that delivers crispy, golden-brown okra bites with a flavorful cornmeal coating. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, this easy-to-make dish brings traditional southern comfort food to your table using simple ingredients and quick frying techniques.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh or frozen okra (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
- 1/8 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal (yellow or white)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Okra: Drizzle the buttermilk over the cut okra pieces in a large bowl to lightly coat them.
- Season: Sprinkle the seasoning salt and ground black pepper over the okra. Mix with your hands thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the okra and mix with hands again to coat all pieces well.
- Mix in Cornmeal: Add the cornmeal to the okra mixture. Toss carefully to ensure the okra pieces are evenly coated and not sticking together.
- Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
- Fry the Okra: Carefully drop the coated okra pieces into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3 minutes or until the okra turns golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried okra with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Cool and Season: Allow the okra to cool slightly. Add additional salt to taste if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy Southern Fried Okra as a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
- This recipe works well with either fresh or frozen okra; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before proceeding.
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain oil temperature.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as fried okra can lose crispness when left standing.
- Vegetable oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point.
- You can substitute seasoning salt with Cajun seasoning for a spicier twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
