Enjoy perfectly crispy, golden-fried okra, a classic Southern side dish. This easy recipe uses a simple cornmeal breading for maximum crunch, perfect for any meal or as a tasty appetizer.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Side Dish
Method:Pan-Frying
Cuisine:Southern
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh or frozen okra, sliced
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
In a shallow dish, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Add sliced okra to the cornmeal mixture. Toss until evenly coated.
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully add okra in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove okra with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crispiness, you can double-coat the okra. Dip coated okra in a beaten egg or milk, then re-coat in the cornmeal mixture.
If using frozen okra, do not thaw.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the okra for a truly crispy result.
Serve with ranch dressing, comeback sauce, or remoulade.