Crispy Fried Okra

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Golden, crunchy, and full of flavor – this fried okra is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Ingredients

For the Okra

  • 500 g (1 lb) fresh okra
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Coating

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil or sunflower oil (enough for deep frying)

Method

  1. Prepare the Okra
    Wash the okra and dry well. Cut into 2–3 cm (1-inch) rounds.
  2. Make the Wet Batter
    In a bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Soak the Okra
    Add okra to the batter and mix well. Let sit for 10–15 minutes – this reduces sliminess and adds flavor.
  4. Prepare the Coating
    In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, breadcrumbs, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and onion powder.
  5. Coat the Okra
    Drain okra slightly, then toss in the coating until every piece is well covered.
  6. Heat the Oil
    Heat oil to 175–180°C (350°F).
  7. Fry
    Fry in small batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.
    Do not overcrowd the pan.
  8. Drain & Season
    Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with extra salt.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with garlic aioli, ranch, spicy mayo, or yogurt sauce
  • Great with grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or barbecue
  • Add to wraps or salads for crunch

Extra Tips

  • For extra crunch: double coat (dip again in milk, then cornmeal mix).
  • Air fryer: Spray with oil, cook at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • Oven: Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.

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