Here’s a Southern classic: crispy fried okra — golden, crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as a side dish or a snack!
🟢 Southern Fried Okra
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
⏲️ Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 4
✨ Ingredients:
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1 lb fresh okra, sliced into ½-inch rounds
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½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
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¾ cup cornmeal
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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Vegetable oil (for frying — about 2 cups)
🥣 Instructions:
1. Prep the Okra:
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Rinse and pat dry the okra.
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Slice into ½-inch pieces and discard stems.
2. Soak in Buttermilk:
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Place sliced okra in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk.
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Let sit for 10–15 minutes. This helps the coating stick.
3. Mix Coating:
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In a shallow bowl, mix:
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Cornmeal
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Flour
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Salt, pepper, and paprika (or your favorite spice blend)
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4. Dredge the Okra:
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Use a slotted spoon to lift okra from buttermilk (let excess drip off).
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Toss in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.
5. Fry:
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Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry okra in small batches for 2–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
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Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
🧂 Serve With:
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A sprinkle of sea salt
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Ranch or spicy dipping sauce
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Hot sauce on the side
🔁 Tips & Variations:
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Air fryer version: Toss breaded okra in a little oil and air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
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Want extra crunch? Use panko or double-coat the okra.
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Frozen okra works too — just thaw and pat dry before coating.
