Get ready to indulge in a Southern culinary classic: crispy fried okra! This beloved snack has been a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and backyard barbecues for generations. And why not? The combination of tender okra pods, crunchy exterior, and rich flavor profiles is unbeatable.
In this article, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through 18 crispy fried okra recipes that showcase the versatility and Southern charm of this beloved dish. From traditional pan-frying to modern air frying, these innovative recipes will inspire you to experiment with new flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or just looking for a fun and easy snack, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron, preheat your fryer, and get ready to dive into the world of crispy fried okra!
Buttermilk Fried Okra with Spicy Aioli
This classic Southern recipe gets a flavorful twist with the addition of spicy aioli, making it perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods, sliced
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced okra to the buttermilk mixture; let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Preheat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the okra from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the okra in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Drain the fried okra on paper towels.
Spicy Aioli:
– Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Okra Bites
Get ready to enjoy a crispy and savory twist on traditional fried okra! These bite-sized morsels are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each okra round into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated okra rounds in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Southern-Style Pan-Fried Okra
A classic Southern side dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, pan-fried okra is a staple at many family gatherings. This recipe brings together the simplicity of okra with the warmth of Southern comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra pods into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry okra in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Okra with Cajun Seasoning
Transform okra into a crispy, flavorful snack with the help of your air fryer and some bold Cajun seasoning. This recipe is perfect for okra lovers and those looking to add some excitement to their snack game.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the okra with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Load the okra into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space for even cooking.
4. Cook the okra for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check on the okra; if it’s not crispy enough, continue to cook in 1-minute increments until desired crispiness is reached.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Fried Okra and Shrimp Po’ Boy
Get ready to dive into a crispy, flavorful sandwich filled with fried okra and succulent shrimp, all piled high on toasted French bread. This Po’ Boy is a Southern twist on the classic fried seafood sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced into rings
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 French bread rolls, toasted
– Lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge okra rings in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Fry in hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
3. Dip shrimp in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture. Fry in hot oil until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried okra and shrimp on toasted French bread. Add lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Fried Okra
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this addictive recipe! Crispy fried okra tossed in a spicy Sriracha sauce will have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dredge okra slices in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured okra in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture again.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry okra until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Remove fried okra from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. In a small bowl, mix together Sriracha sauce and butter.
9. Toss fried okra in the spicy sauce mixture until well coated.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Garlic Parmesan Fried Okra
Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, this Southern favorite gets a flavorful twist with garlic and parmesan cheese. Elevate your snack or side dish game with this easy-to-make recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for dipping)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each okra slice into the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated okra slices in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with minced garlic and parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (depending on the number of batches)
Beer-Battered Fried Okra with Ranch Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination: crispy beer-battered fried okra served with a tangy ranch dip. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ranch dip (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add the beer, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dredge okra slices in the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered okra in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
6. Remove fried okra from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve immediately with ranch dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Fried Okra Tacos with Lime Crema
Fried Okra Tacos with Lime Crema: A Crispy Twist on a Classic Taco Filling
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the crunch of fried okra with the tanginess of lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced into thin rings
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge okra slices in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry okra in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried okra onto tortillas, followed by your desired toppings.
6. Serve with lime crema (see below) for an added burst of flavor.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Fried Okra
This recipe adds a smoky twist to traditional fried okra, with the bold flavor of paprika and a crispy coating. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra pods in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Fried Okra and Corn Fritters
A Southern classic gets a delicious twist with this recipe that combines the crunch of fried okra with the sweetness of corn fritters. Perfect for a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each okra slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal and buttermilk to form a thick batter.
5. Heat another 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with honey or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Crispy Fried Okra Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
This Southern-inspired salad combines the crunch of fried okra with the tanginess of buttermilk dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge okra pods in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry okra in batches until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, and vinegar.
5. Combine cooked okra, parsley, salt, and pepper in the bowl with the dressing. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Okra Stuffed with Pimento Cheese
This recipe combines the crispy goodness of fried okra with the creamy richness of pimento cheese, creating a unique and delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra pods
– 1 cup pimento cheese (see note)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Cut okra pods into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch long.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Dip each okra piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Stuff each okra piece with about 1-2 tablespoons of pimento cheese.
6. Fry stuffed okra in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain fried okra on paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Fried Okra and Bacon Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these easy-to-make, crispy, and deliciously savory Fried Okra and Bacon Skewers. Perfect for parties or a quick bite, this recipe combines the textures of crunchy okra and smoky bacon in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dip okra pods into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Wrap each okra pod with a bacon slice.
5. Thread 2-3 skewers onto wooden sticks, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Fry skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Honey Glazed Fried Okra
Sweet and Spicy Honey Glazed Fried Okra: A twist on traditional fried okra, this recipe adds a sweet and spicy kick to the crispy fried pods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra slices into buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry okra until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and rice vinegar.
7. Toss fried okra with the honey glaze until coated.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Fried Okra with Remoulade Sauce
Elevate your Southern comfort food game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the crunch of fried okra with the tanginess of remoulade sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this classic combo is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra pods in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated okra in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Remoulade Sauce.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Okra and Tomato Summer Salad
This refreshing salad combines crispy fried okra with juicy tomatoes, perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl. Dip okra pods in the buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry okra until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Drain okra on paper towels.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine fried okra, diced tomatoes, and dressing in a serving bowl. Garnish with parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Okra Poppers with Jalapeño Dip
These crispy fried okra pops are filled with a savory and spicy surprise. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, these bite-sized treats will have you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Jalapeño dip (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Pour buttermilk into another bowl.
4. Dip okra pods in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry coated okra for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with Jalapeño dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the amount of okra)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of fried okra! This Southern staple gets a creative twist with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From classic Southern-style pan-frying to innovative air fryer and beer-battered methods, there’s something for everyone. Spicy aioli, Cajun seasoning, and pimento cheese add bold flavors to the mix, while garlic parmesan and honey glaze bring sweetness. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, po’ boys, or a simple salad, these crispy fried okra recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
