The Best Homemade Fried Okra Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fried okra recipe is crispy, flavorful, and easier to make than you might think. You’ll love how it turns out every time!
- Perfectly crunchy—the cornmeal coating gives each bite a satisfying crunch without being greasy.
- Simple ingredients—just a few pantry staples come together for a dish that tastes like it’s straight from a Southern kitchen.
- Kid-approved—even picky eaters can’t resist these golden bites, making them a hit for family dinners or snacks.
Recipe
Crispy, golden fried okra is a Southern favorite that’s quick and easy to make at home. This recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, crunchy bites with a tender interior.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and buttermilk together.
- Dip the okra pieces into the egg mixture, then coat them evenly with the cornmeal mixture.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the okra in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Transfer the fried okra to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra crispiness, let the coated okra sit for 10 minutes before frying. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
Equipment
- Deep skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine
Southern
Serving
4 servings
Nutrition
Fried Okra is a delicious Southern dish, but it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Below is the nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of Homemade Fried Okra:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my crispy fried okra with creamy coleslaw or buttery cornbread—they balance the crunch perfectly. If you’re craving something fresh, a tangy tomato salad or pickled veggies add a nice contrast. Don’t forget a cool dipping sauce, like ranch or comeback sauce, to tie everything together.
Side Dish Pairings
When I’m serving up a plate of homemade fried okra, I love to pair it with dishes that complement its crunch and Southern charm. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread make cozy, comforting sides, while collard greens or black-eyed peas add a savory touch. For something lighter, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad works wonders. I also enjoy serving it with a bowl of chili or a slice of smoky grilled chicken for a heartier meal. These pairings balance the okra’s texture and flavor, creating a meal that feels complete and satisfying, just like my grandma used to make.
Complementary Flavors
Though fried okra shines as the star of the plate, it’s even better when surrounded by flavors that make it pop. I love pairing it with tangy remoulade or zesty ranch dipping sauce—it balances the crispy, golden bites perfectly. A simple squeeze of lemon or lime adds brightness, while a sprinkle of flaky salt or chili powder amps up the savory kick. For heartier meals, I serve it alongside creamy coleslaw, smoky baked beans, or a fresh cucumber salad. Even a side of fluffy cornbread or buttery mashed potatoes feels like a match made in Southern comfort heaven!
