Ben'S Fried Okra
Crispy, golden fried okra with a savory cornmeal coating, perfect as a snack or side dish, appealing to those who enjoy Southern-style comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and drain well small pods of okra.
- Slice okra into 1/4-inch thick rounds and discard stem ends and tips.
- Sprinkle sliced okra with salt and roll in cornmeal to coat well.
- Heat shortening in a skillet until hot.
- Drop coated okra into hot fat and cook until golden brown, stirring often.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using a mix of cornmeal and flour. If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or paprika to the cornmeal coating. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the okra to prevent sogginess. Fresh okra is best, but frozen can work in a pinch; just ensure it's fully thawed and drained.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ben's Fried Okra as a delightful appetizer or side dish alongside fried chicken or barbecue. It pairs beautifully with Vegetarian Chili Soup for a comforting meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple green salad or a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy remoulade. Enjoy it hot for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crispiness. Microwaving can make it soggy, so avoid that method if possible.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ben'S Fried Okra contains roughly 2009 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 227g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While you can prepare the okra by slicing and coating it in advance, it's best to fry it just before serving for optimal crispiness. If you must prepare ahead, store the coated okra in the refrigerator and fry it fresh when ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).