Fried Okra: A Crispy Southern Delight
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, fried okra is a beloved Southern classic that never fails to impress. With its light, crunchy coating and tender interior, this dish makes the perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack. Whether you're enjoying it at a family gathering or serving it up with your favorite comfort foods, fried okra always brings a bit of Southern charm to the table. Easy to make and full of flavor, this recipe will have you craving that satisfying crunch in every bite. Let’s dive into this crispy goodness!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced okra in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over it. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Remove the okra from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.
4. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the okra in batches, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pan.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot as a side dish with ranch dressing or a dash of hot sauce for a classic Southern treat.
