Peggy'S Fried Okra
Crispy, golden fried okra with a flavorful cornmeal coating, perfect as a snack or side dish for those who enjoy Southern-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the okra and leave small pods whole.
- Cut large pods into 1/2-inch slices.
- Beat the egg and milk together.
- Add a pinch of salt and a shake of pepper to the egg mixture.
- Pour the mixture over the okra and gently shake in a bag containing the cornmeal to coat.
- Heat hot fat in a skillet or deep fryer.
- Fry the coated okra slices in hot fat until golden brown, about 4 to 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider mixing a tablespoon of flour with the cornmeal. You can also try using panko breadcrumbs if you want a different texture. If you have any leftover okra, you can substitute it with green beans for a similar frying method. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the okra to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Fried okra is a delightful appetizer or side dish that pairs beautifully with Southern favorites like fried chicken or catfish. Serve it with a side of ranch dressing or hot sauce for dipping. Consider complementing the dish with a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the okra soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Fried Okra contains roughly 74 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg 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 use frozen okra for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen okra. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before coating and frying. Frozen okra may have a slightly different texture, but it will still deliver great flavor.
What type of oil is best for frying okra?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil are excellent choices for frying okra due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid using olive oil, as it may burn at high temperatures.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular cornmeal with a gluten-free cornmeal blend. Additionally, check the egg and milk for any additives that might contain gluten if you are highly sensitive.
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).