Introduction to Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
There’s something magical about the sizzle of Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra filling your kitchen with warmth. It’s like a comforting embrace after a long day. As a busy mom, I know the struggle of finding quick, tasty solutions that please everyone at the table. This crispy delight isn’t just a dish; it’s a charming side that can elevate any meal or serve as a delightful snack. Whether you’re hoping to impress your loved ones or just looking for a reliable recipe for a hectic weeknight, this pan-fried okra is your ticket to simple, satisfying goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra is not just another recipe; it’s a culinary gem that marries simplicity with flavor. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is tight. Each crispy bite bursts with taste, transporting me to sunlit Southern kitchens. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone, even the picky eaters. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll be a staple in your home!
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
Preparing Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra is made easy with just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Okra: Look for vibrant green pods; they should feel firm but tender. This is the star of our dish!
- All Purpose Flour: A must-have for that golden, crispy coating. It’s the foundation of our crunchy texture.
- Cornmeal: Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. It’s essential for that comforting Southern flair.
- Salt: Just a touch enhances the flavors. Sprinkle some on the finished dish for an extra kick!
- Black Pepper: A dash of spice that livens things up. It’s a perfect partner to the okra’s natural taste.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering. If you’re a garlic lover like me, go ahead and add an extra pinch!
- Large Egg: This binds the coating. It’s crucial for achieving that perfect adherence of the flour and cornmeal.
- Milk: Combined with the egg, it creates a smooth coating that clings well to our slices of okra.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose something with a high smoke point. This ensures that your okra gets crispy without burning.
For exact measurements, check the end of this article where you’ll find a handy printout! If you can’t find fresh okra, frozen is a great alternative, just thaw and drain it well. Now, let’s gather these ingredients and get cooking!
How to Make Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
Now that we’ve gathered our tasty ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part: cooking! Making Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a crispy snack or side dish in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
First, grab a heavy skillet and pour in your vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F. I always use a frying thermometer to be sure.
Step 2: Prepare the Okra
While the oil heats, let’s prep our star ingredient! Cut off the tops and tails of the okra pods, then slice them into ½-inch thick pieces. This size is perfect for achieving that satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Next, it’s time for our dry coating! In a resealable bag, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Give it a good shake until everything is well combined. This mixture will ensure each piece of okra is perfectly crispy!
Step 4: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, crack the large egg and pour in the milk. Beat them together until you have a smooth mixture. This will help the dry ingredients stick to the okra.
Step 5: Coat the Okra
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Take a batch of your sliced okra and add it to the egg mixture. Use your hands to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Then, toss this batch into the dry mixture. Seal the bag and shake well until all pieces are coated!
Step 6: Fry the Okra
Once your oil is hot enough, carefully drop in the coated okra. Be cautious to avoid any hot oil splashes! Give them a gentle stir with a spatula to keep them from sticking. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve with Caution
Remove the fried okra from the skillet and place them on a sheet pan lined with paper towels. This helps drain any excess oil. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt on top while they’re still warm. And voila, your Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra is ready to enjoy! But be cautious; they’ll be tempting right out of the pan!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your oil is hot enough for that perfect crispiness—350°F is key!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches to avoid soggy okra.
- Let the fried okra rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Experiment with spices; add cayenne or paprika for extra flavor!
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy Skillet: A cast iron skillet works wonders, but any sturdy frying pan will do.
- Frying Thermometer: Essential for checking oil temperature. A regular kitchen thermometer can suffice!
- Spatula: A slotted spatula is great for flipping. A regular one will work too.
- Medium Mixing Bowl: For whisking the egg and milk. Any bowl will fit the bill!
- Resealable Bag: Perfect for shaking the dry ingredients. A bowl can be a good alternative.
Variations
- Spicy Okra: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the dry ingredients for a kick!
- Herbed Coating: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour for an aromatic twist.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese into the dry mixture for a cheesy flavorful coat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra with creamy ranch or zesty remoulade for dipping.
- Serve alongside Southern staples like fried chicken or cornbread for a classic meal.
- For a lighter option, accompany with a fresh garden salad.
- A chilled glass of sweet tea complements this crispy delight perfectly.
FAQs about Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen okra is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture. This will help you achieve that crispy texture we all crave!
How can I make my okra extra crispy?
For extra crunch, ensure your oil is hot enough before you add in the okra. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, and let them drain on paper towels after frying. A sprinkle of cornmeal in addition to the flour can also enhance the crunch!
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Certainly! You can use less oil by baking the okra instead of frying. Toss the coated okra with a little oil, then spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What are some good dipping sauces for Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra?
Ranch dressing is a classic choice, but you can also serve it with remoulade, spicy mayo, or even homemade yogurt dips. The right sauce can elevate your crispy okra experience!
Can I prepare the okra in advance?
While it’s best to fry them fresh for maximum crunch, you can prep the okra and coating ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and then fry them just before serving. This way, you’ll still have that delightful crunch!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra isn’t just about making a dish; it’s about sharing a slice of Southern hospitality with your loved ones. Each crispy bite connects us to cherished memories, laughter, and family gatherings. I adore watching my kids dive into the warm, crunchy goodness, their faces lighting up with delight. This recipe isn’t just a new addition to your meal plan; it’s a cherished moment waiting to happen in your kitchen. So, grab those fresh okra and let the sizzling begin—let’s create delicious memories together, one crispy bite at a time!
Print
Old Fashioned Pan Fried Okra
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pan Fried
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crispy and delicious recipe for pan fried okra, perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients
- 24 Ounces Fresh Okra
- 1 Cup All Purpose Flour
- ¼ Cup Cornmeal
- ½ teaspoon Salt + more for sprinkling after
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Each Large Egg
- ¼ Cup Milk
- 2 Cups Vegetable Oil for frying
Instructions
- Add the cooking oil to your skillet and heat over medium high heat, until 350°F.
- While the oil is heating, prepare the okra for cooking. Cut the tips off the ends then slice into ½” slices.
- Add the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper and garlic powder to a resealable bag and shake well. Set aside.
- To a medium sized mixing bowl, add the egg and milk and beat until well mixed.
- Add a batch of the sliced okra to the egg mixture first and move about using your hand to make sure all the slices are coated and wet.
- Add this batch to the flour mixture and shake well to coat evenly.
- Check that the oil is definitely at 350°F using a frying thermometer. Drop this first batch of okra into the hot oil, carefully.
- Move around with a frying spatula to make sure they don’t stick and to turn over. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from the grease to a sheet pan lined with paper towel and sprinkle a little extra salt.
- Repeat with another batch of the okra, until all is cooked.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to get crispy okra.
- Use fresh okra for best results.
- Optionally, serve with a dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
