Fried Okra With Tomatoes
Crispy fried okra combined with juicy tomatoes creates a flavorful southern side dish full of crunch and zest, perfect for casual gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced okra, salt, pepper, flour, and cornmeal in a large mixing bowl.
- Add oil to a large skillet and heat until hot.
- Pour the okra mixture into the hot oil and reduce the heat to medium.
- Cook until the okra is about half done, then add the chopped tomatoes.
- Continue cooking until the okra is browned and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using a combination of rice flour and cornmeal in the breading. If you want a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the okra to prevent sogginess. You can also substitute the tomatoes with chopped bell peppers or zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fried okra alongside cornbread and a fresh green salad for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Rhubarb Jam as a sweet contrast. For a more substantial dish, consider adding it to a bowl of rice or alongside grilled meats. A squeeze of lemon over the top right before serving enhances the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Okra With Tomatoes contains roughly 190 calories, with 6g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1893mg per serving (82% 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 use frozen okra for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen okra, but it's best to thaw and drain it well before cooking. This helps to avoid excess moisture which can make the coating soggy. Pat the okra dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe for the best texture.
What type of oil is best for frying okra?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying okra due to their high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil as it can burn at high temperatures. Ensure the oil is heated properly before frying to achieve a crispy result.
How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it uses no animal products. To enhance flavor, you might consider adding nutritional yeast to the flour mixture for a cheesy flavor. Pair it with other vegan recipes like Sauteed Tofu And Vegetables to create a balanced meal.
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).