Crispy fried okra bites are the snack that disappears fast. Crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly seasoned. 🌿✨ Here’s a simple, classic recipe that gets that satisfying crisp every time.
Crispy Fried Okra Bites
Serves
4
Prep: 10 minutes
Fry: 8–10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh okra, washed and sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prep the okra
- Wash and pat dry.
- Slice into ½-inch pieces.
2. Soak
- Place okra in a bowl and pour buttermilk over it.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes (helps coating stick).
3. Dredge
In a shallow bowl, mix:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
Coat okra pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry okra in small batches 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Season immediately with a pinch of salt.
Tips for Extra Crispy Okra
- Don’t overcrowd the pan (causes sogginess).
- Keep oil temperature steady.
- Use fresh okra (frozen tends to get mushy).
- Double-dredge: dip back in buttermilk and coat again for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- With ranch or spicy mayo
- As a side to fried chicken
- In a po’ boy sandwich
- With hot sauce for extra kick
Air Fryer Version (Optional)
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
- Spray okra lightly with oil
- Air fry 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through