Description
Southern Fried Okra features tender slices of fresh okra coated in a flavorful blend of buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce, then dredged in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture. Quickly fried to golden perfection, the result is crisp, delicious bites with a soft interior. This southern staple is perfect for gatherings and pairs wonderfully with ketchup or remoulade for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh okra, rinsed and patted dry
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Slice okra into 3/4-inch pieces, discarding stems and tips.
- Heat 3 inches of oil in a Dutch oven to 375°F.
- Whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the okra in the buttermilk mixture, draining off excess liquid.
- Dredge the okra in the cornmeal mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Fry okra in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
- Transfer fried okra to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with ketchup or remoulade.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or gluten-free flour. You can prepare the okra up to the dredging step and refrigerate for a few hours before frying. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a hot oven to regain crispness. If okra becomes soggy, drain well and fry in hotter oil. Use fresh, dry okra for best results to avoid excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg