Southern Fried Okra Recipe

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Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.

Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.
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It’s a simple breaded and fried dish that only requires a little salt. One taste of Southern-fried okra and you’ll forget that you’re eating a nutritious vegetable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • okra
  • all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • egg
  • milk
  • vegetable oil
  • Fresh lemon

(Note: Full recipe is at the bottom of the post)

How to Make Southern Fried Okra

  • Wash and dry the okra before trimming off the stem ends. Then slice widthwise into 1-inch pieces.
  • Preheat one inch of oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F. Line a large plate with paper towels.
  • Combine the flour, salt, and pepper on a shallow plate.
  • Beat the eggs and milk together in a bowl. 
  • Drag each piece of okra in flour, followed by the egg mixture. Deep fry in batches of a dozen pieces for 1-2 minutes, or until golden.
  • Carefully remove to the prepared plate using a slotted spoon. Sprinkle with fresh lemon juice and serve warm.
Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.

Tips and Tricks

  • When buying okra, opt for the greenest pods without brown or black markings. Smaller pods no more than 3 inches in length are more tender than larger okra.
  • Coating each okra pod evenly with flour and shaking off any excess will make it more tender.
  • It’s easy to burn okra, so turn the pods early in the frying process using a slotted spoon.

How to Prevent Okra from Being Slimy

One thing about okra that turns off some people is it can be kind of slimy. The best way to avoid this is to add a souring agent such as lemon juice or vinegar. 

Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.

Is The Slime In Okra Good For You?

Yes, the slime is good for you! It contains soluble fiber, something many of us don’t get enough of, and it helps you digest properly.

How to Fry Paula Deen Okra

Dip okra in buttermilk then coat it thoroughly in a combined cornmeal, flour, house seasoning, and cayenne pepper mixture. Carefully add the okra to the hot oil and cook until golden brown. Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and serve immediately.

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Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.

Easy Southern Fried Okra Recipe

By: Izzy
Southern-fried okra is a summertime snack that has earned the nickname “southern popcorn” for its delicious golden nuggets of flavor.
Servings: 4

Ingredients 

  • 1 pound okra
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • vegetable oil, or equivalent
  • Fresh lemon

Instructions 

  • Wash and dry the okra before trimming off the stem ends. Then slice widthwise into 1-inch pieces.
  • Preheat one inch of oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F. Line a large plate with paper towels.
  • Combine the flour, salt, and pepper on a shallow plate.
  • Beat the eggs and milk together in a bowl.
  • Drag each piece of okra in flour, followed by the egg mixture. Deep fry in batches of a dozen pieces for 1-2 minutes, or until golden.
  • Carefully remove to the prepared plate using a slotted spoon. Sprinkle with fresh lemon juice and serve warm.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.

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About Izzy

I'm Izzy, a food lover and photographer. Here you’ll find a collection of simple recipes that are perfect for busy people. My blog aims to help you make and enjoy delicious and healthy food at home.

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