Fried Squash Or Okra
Crispy fried squash or okra with seasoned cornmeal coating, perfect as a flavorful side or snack for all occasions, offering a crunchy texture and savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix corn meal, self-rising flour, cornstarch, and seasoned salt in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag.
- Place sliced okra or squash in a bowl. Beat water and egg together.
- Pour the egg and water mixture over the vegetables and mix well.
- Drain the vegetables and put them in the bag with the dry mixture. Shake well to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer. Drop the coated vegetables into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding a tablespoon of baking powder to the dry mix. If you don't have seasoned salt, you can use regular salt combined with garlic powder and paprika for flavor. You can also substitute the squash or okra with zucchini or eggplant if desired. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These fried vegetables are great as a snack or side dish. Serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or homemade Aubrey'S Barbecue Sauce * for a flavorful twist. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on their own with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, rather than using the microwave which may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Squash Or Okra contains roughly 394 calories, with 6g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2029mg per serving (88% 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 vegetables for this recipe?
While fresh squash or okra yields the best texture, you can use frozen vegetables. Make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture before coating and frying to ensure they crisp up nicely.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for frying due to their high smoke points. Peanut oil also works well for a slight nutty flavor. Avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may burn during frying.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your cornmeal and cornstarch are also labeled gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).