Mollie'S Fried Okra
Crispy fried okra slices with a tender interior, coated in a flavorful batter. Perfect as a snack or side dish, appealing to those who enjoy Southern comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Select small, tender okra pods (2 to 3 inches long), wash to remove fuzz, and slice into little wheels.
- Prepare the batter in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the milk and beaten egg until smooth.
- Gradually add flour until the mixture becomes fairly thick and will not run in the skillet.
- Add the sliced okra to the batter and mix with a spoon until coated and ropey.
- Heat a flat skillet and butter it well.
- Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the okra batter onto the skillet, flattening them into about silver dollar size patties.
- Fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose small, tender okra pods to ensure they fry evenly and have a tender texture. If you want to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or paprika into the batter. Alternatively, you can use cornmeal instead of flour for a crunchier texture. Be sure to keep the oil hot enough for frying to achieve a golden brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
Mollie's Fried Okra is a delightful appetizer that pairs beautifully with dishes like Arroz Con Leche Carmen or can be served as a side to grilled meats. Consider adding a dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy remoulade, for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or as part of a Southern-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried okra can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the okra soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mollie'S Fried Okra contains roughly 588 calories, with 11g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2086mg per serving (91% 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 completely before slicing and coating. Frozen okra may not be as tender as fresh, but it will still work well in this fried preparation.
What can I serve with fried okra?
Fried okra is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It's great alongside fried chicken, on a salad, or as part of a Southern meal. You can also serve it with dips, such as a spicy aioli or classic ranch dressing, to enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the okra is fully cooked?
The okra is fully cooked when it turns golden brown and is crispy on the outside. It typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the heat of your skillet. If you're unsure, you can always cut one open to check that it's tender inside.
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).