Cornmeal Fried Okra

Cornmeal Fried Okra is a classic Southern dish that brings together the crispiness of deep-fried goodness with the tender texture of fresh okra. This dish offers a flavorful, crunchy bite that pairs perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, from ranch to spicy aioli. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, it’s bound to be a hit at any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cornmeal Fried Okra is a mouthwatering combination of crisp, golden-brown crust and the natural taste of fresh okra. The cornmeal coating gives it a satisfying crunch, while the seasonings of garlic powder, salt, and pepper add just the right amount of flavor. Frying the okra ensures that it remains tender inside while getting beautifully crispy on the outside. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy vegetable in a fun and flavorful way. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients and basic steps, making it a perfect dish to serve during casual gatherings or as a side to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or thawed okra

• 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1½ cups yellow cornmeal

• 1 beaten egg

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Oil for deep frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Slice the okra into ½-inch rounds, discarding the stems and tips.

2. Place the sliced okra in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water.

3. Transfer the okra to a bowl and dust with flour, tossing to evenly coat. Shake off any excess flour.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. Add the floured okra and stir until every piece is covered in egg.

5. In a large resealable bag, combine the cornmeal, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

6. Add a handful of okra at a time to the bag, seal it, and shake well to coat each piece in the cornmeal mixture.

7. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.

8. Fry the okra in small batches for about 2 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.

9. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the okra to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

10. Serve hot with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Fried Okra: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the cornmeal mixture for a spicy kick.

• Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or other vegan egg replacer for a plant-based version.

• Buttermilk Fried Okra: Dip the okra in buttermilk instead of egg for an extra tender texture and a bit of tanginess.

• Herb Coating: Add dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or paprika to the cornmeal mixture for additional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover fried okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the okra soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen okra. Make sure it is completely thawed and pat it dry before using it in the recipe to prevent sogginess.

2. How do I keep the okra from being soggy?

To avoid soggy fried okra, be sure to pat the okra dry after rinsing and use a light coating of flour and cornmeal. Fry in small batches to ensure they stay crispy.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Fried okra is best served immediately after frying for maximum crispiness. However, you can prepare the okra by coating it in the flour and cornmeal mixture ahead of time, and then fry it just before serving.

4. What type of oil is best for frying okra?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal for deep frying okra because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

5. Can I air fry the okra instead of deep frying?

Yes, you can air fry the okra! Lightly spray the coated okra with oil and air fry at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. How can I make the okra extra crispy?

For extra crunch, use a double coating of flour and cornmeal. You can also add a bit of baking powder to the cornmeal mixture to help with the crispiness.

7. Can I freeze fried okra?

Fried okra can be frozen, though it may lose some of its crispiness. To freeze, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

8. What are some good dipping sauces for fried okra?

Ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or a simple squeeze of lemon are excellent choices for dipping fried okra. For a more adventurous flavor, try hot sauce or a creamy garlic dip.

9. Can I make the cornmeal coating spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili powder to the cornmeal mixture for a spicier version of fried okra.

10. Is it necessary to use yellow cornmeal, or can I use white cornmeal?

Yellow cornmeal is traditionally used for fried okra due to its slightly sweeter flavor and color, but you can use white cornmeal as a substitute if you prefer.

Conclusion

Cornmeal Fried Okra is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that brings out the best in this Southern vegetable. With a simple coating of flour, cornmeal, and spices, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something crunchy and savory. Enjoy it hot, with your favorite dipping sauce, for the ultimate fried okra experience!