Texas Fried Okra
Texas Fried Okra offers a crispy, flavorful snack or side, showcasing tender okra coated in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture. Perfect for those who love Southern comfort foods, it's quick to prepare and delivers a delightful crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a plastic bag, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Cut okra into 1/2-inch slices.
- Pour buttermilk or milk over okra and toss to coat.
- Place okra in the plastic bag with the seasoned mixture and shake to coat evenly.
- In a skillet, heat oil over moderate heat.
- Add coated okra to the hot oil.
- Fry until crispy and brown, turning frequently.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider using a mix of cornmeal and breadcrumbs. If you want to spice things up, add cayenne pepper or paprika to the dry mixture. Fresh okra is preferable, but frozen works too; just ensure it's thawed and drained. If you don't have buttermilk, regular milk or a milk-vinegar mixture can substitute well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Fried Okra as a delightful appetizer or side dish with barbecue or southern fried chicken. It pairs beautifully with Sour Milk Yeast Rolls for a complete meal. You can also offer a dipping sauce like ranch dressing or a spicy remoulade for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried okra can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the okra soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Fried Okra contains roughly 839 calories, with 13g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1795mg per serving (78% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use certified gluten-free cornmeal as well. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How do I know when the okra is done frying?
The okra is ready when it turns a golden brown color and is crispy to the touch. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes in hot oil. Make sure to turn them frequently for even cooking.
What can I serve with fried okra?
Fried okra is versatile and goes well with many dishes. It complements southern dishes like gumbo or jambalaya. For a lighter meal, enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or combine it with other appetizers like Fried Spinach Balls.
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).