Description
These Crispy Fried Okra Bites are a classic Southern treat that delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Fresh okra is coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust and fried to golden perfection, creating an irresistible snack or side dish. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a true comfort-food experience!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh okra, washed and sliced into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Wash and dry the okra. Trim the stems and slice into ½-inch thick pieces.
- Prepare a breading station with three bowls:
- In the first bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs together.
- In the second bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Leave the third bowl empty to hold the breaded okra.
- Dip the okra pieces into the buttermilk mixture, then coat them in the cornmeal-flour mixture. Shake off any excess coating and set aside.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the breaded okra in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still warm. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- To bake instead of fry, arrange the breaded okra on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
- Leftover fried okra can be reheated in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes