Crispy Fried Okra with Cornmeal Coating
Crispy, golden, and full of Southern flavor, this Crispy Fried Okra with Cornmeal Coating is a delicious side dish you’ll crave again and again. Fresh okra is coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust and fried to perfection, creating a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful inside.
Ingredients
- For the Okra
- 1 lb fresh okra, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal (yellow or white)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Okra Wash and dry okra thoroughly.Trim the ends and slice into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Step 2: Buttermilk Soak : Place okra in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk.Let it soak while you prepare the coating—this helps the cornmeal stick better.
- Step 3: Prepare the Coating : In a separate shallow bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Step 4: Coat the Okra : Remove okra from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.Toss in the cornmeal mixture until evenly coated. Shake off any extra.
- Step 5: Fry the Okra : Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).Fry okra in small batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.