Fried Okra

Fried Okra: A Crispy, Southern Classic
Golden, crunchy on the outside and tender inside — this Southern favorite is perfect as a side dish or snack.
🛒 Ingredients
2 cups fresh okra, sliced (½-inch pieces)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetable oil for frying
👩‍🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Okra
Wash and dry the okra thoroughly.
Slice into ½-inch rounds, discarding the stems.
Place sliced okra in a bowl and pour buttermilk over it.
Let soak for 10–15 minutes (this helps the coating stick).
2️⃣ Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix:
Cornmeal
Flour
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Stir well to combine.
3️⃣ Coat the Okra
Remove okra from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
Toss in the cornmeal mixture until evenly coated.
Press lightly so the coating sticks well.
4️⃣ Fry
Heat about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
Fry okra in small batches (don’t overcrowd).
Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
5️⃣ Drain & Serve
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels.
Sprinkle lightly with extra salt while hot.
🍽️ Serve With
Ranch or spicy aioli
BBQ dishes
Fried chicken
Fresh lemon wedges