Description
Southern Fried Okra is a crispy, golden Southern classic made with fresh okra, cornmeal, and hot peanut oil. With a crunchy exterior and tender inside, this comfort food side dish is quick, simple, and perfect alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh okra pods
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/3 cup finely ground white cornmeal
Peanut oil, for frying
Instructions
- Wash and dry okra thoroughly. Trim ends and slice into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Place okra in a large bowl, season with salt and pepper, and toss with cornmeal until evenly coated.
- Heat about 3/4 inch of peanut oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot (test with a piece of coated okra—it should bubble immediately).
- Fry okra in small batches, turning as needed, until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel–lined plate or wire rack. Sprinkle with extra salt if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add cayenne, paprika, or garlic powder to the cornmeal for extra flavor.
- Dip okra in buttermilk before coating for a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Mix cornmeal with flour for a lighter coating.
- Serve with ranch, remoulade, or hot sauce for dipping.
- Use certified gluten-free cornmeal to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
