Recipe: Fried Okra
Overview:
This Fried Okra recipe is a crowd-pleaser, disappearing in an instant at any gathering. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, it’s no wonder why families can’t get enough of it. Perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden perfection, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s an ideal side dish for any meal.
Rating and Reviews:
With an outstanding aggregated rating of 5 stars from 10 reviews, it’s evident that this Fried Okra recipe is a hit among those who have tried it. Reviewers rave about its addictive taste, with many noting that they often have to double the recipe to satisfy everyone’s cravings. One enthusiastic reviewer even mentioned that their family would happily eat this dish every night if given the chance, speaking volumes about its deliciousness and popularity.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of this Fried Okra provides approximately 412.8 calories, with 15.4 grams of fat, 5.9 grams of saturated fat, and 17.2 milligrams of cholesterol. It also contains 1515.7 milligrams of sodium, 58.6 grams of carbohydrates, 6.6 grams of fiber, 7.3 grams of sugar, and 12 grams of protein. These values may vary depending on factors such as ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup bacon drippings
- Oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Okra: Start by cutting off and discarding the tip and stem ends from the okra, then slice it into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Marinate in Buttermilk: Stir the sliced okra into the buttermilk until well coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the self-rising flour, salt, and cayenne pepper to create the coating mixture.
- Dredge the Okra: Remove the okra from the buttermilk using a slotted spoon, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Discard the remaining buttermilk.
- Coat the Okra: Dredge the okra slices in the prepared flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. Work in batches to coat the okra thoroughly.
- Heat the Oil: In a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough oil to reach a depth of 2 inches. Add the bacon drippings for extra flavor.
- Fry the Okra: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated okra to the skillet in batches. Fry for approximately 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried okra to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispy okra, ensure the oil is hot before adding the coated slices.
- Work in batches while frying to prevent overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy okra.
- Serve the fried okra with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or spicy mayo, for added flavor.
Conclusion:
With its simple preparation, irresistible taste, and rave reviews, this Fried Okra recipe is a must-try for any vegetable lover. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal. So gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to indulge in the crispy goodness of this southern-inspired favorite.
