Description
Crispy Okra Fries are a delightful snack or side dish, featuring fresh okra sliced lengthwise, coated in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture, then deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe delivers a crunchy exterior and tender inside, perfect for dipping and sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Okra Fries
- 1 lb fresh okra, washed and sliced lengthwise
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Heat the oil. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for frying the okra fries, ensuring the oil is hot enough to create a crispy coating.
- Prepare the coating mixture. In a bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to evenly distribute the spices and seasoning.
- Coat the okra. Dip each okra slice into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat the slices in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
- Fry the okra. Carefully place the coated okra slices in the hot oil in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain excess oil. Remove the fried okra with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve. Serve the crispy okra fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
- Use fresh, firm okra to ensure the fries stay crisp and avoid sliminess.
- Adjust seasoning in the cornmeal mixture to your taste preferences.
- Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crispness, as okra fries can become soggy if left to sit.
- Vegetable or canola oil is preferred for frying due to their neutral flavor and high smoke points.
