Southern Fried Okra

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh okra (rinsed and patted dry with paper towels)
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (whole or lowfat)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Louisiana or Frank's RedHot)
• 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the okra for frying by slicing them into about 3/4 inch pieces. Discard the stems and skinny tips.

2. 2

   Heat 3 inches of oil in a 5 to 6-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Once the oil reaches 375°F, lower the heat to medium to maintain the oil temperature.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and seasonings in a separate medium mixing bowl.

4. 4

   Working in small batches, coat the okra in the buttermilk mixture and use a slotted spoon to scoop up the okra and allow the excess buttermilk to drain. Transfer the okra to the cornmeal mixture and use your hands to completely coat the okra in the breading.

5. 5

   Shake off excess breading and carefully drop the okra into the hot oil with a large spoon. Fry the okra for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the okra to a paper towel-lined plate.

6. 6

   Repeat this process with the remainder of the okra until all the okra has been fried. Serve fried okra immediately with ketchup or remoulade for dipping!