Description
This Crispy Southern Fried Okra is a classic comfort food that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside! Coated in a flavorful cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection, this Southern favorite pairs perfectly with a zesty homemade dipping sauce. Whether you’re serving it at a Mardi Gras party, cookout, or family dinner, this easy fried okra recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Fried Okra:
- 1 lb fresh okra (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Prepare the Okra:
- In a bowl, soak sliced okra in buttermilk for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Coat the Okra:
- In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
- Remove okra from buttermilk and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess.
Fry the Okra:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry okra in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
Serve:
- Enjoy the crispy fried okra with the zesty dipping sauce!
Notes
- For extra crunch, double coat the okra by dipping it back into the buttermilk and cornmeal mixture before frying.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing, remoulade, or spicy aioli for variety.
- Use frozen okra if fresh isn’t available—just be sure to thaw and pat dry first!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Deep-Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun