Fried Okra with Buttermilk Ranch is a delightful Southern classic that often brings me back to family gatherings and summertime picnics. The crispy, golden-brown pieces of okra paired with a creamy buttermilk ranch dip is a match made in heaven. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to serve up a fun appetizer at a barbecue or craving a crunchy side for your fried chicken dinner. There’s just something undeniably satisfying about the crispiness of the okra and the tangy dip that invites you to keep going back for more!
Why you’ll love this dish
You might wonder what makes Fried Okra with Buttermilk Ranch stand out from other appetizers. For one, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering. It’s budget-friendly, too, allowing you to make a delicious dish without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a kid-approved recipe that gives you a chance to introduce your family to the wonderful world of vegetables in a fun and flavorful way. Whether served as a snack or a side, this recipe is sure to impress.
"I made this recipe for a family dinner, and it was a hit! The crispy okra disappeared in minutes, and everyone was asking for the ranch dip recipe!"
Step-by-step overview
Creating Fried Okra with Buttermilk Ranch is easier than you might think! The process involves slicing fresh okra and soaking it in buttermilk to enhance its flavor. After that, a simple mix of cornmeal and flour serves as the perfect coating that gives the okra its crispiness. Next, the okra is fried until golden, and while it’s cooling on paper towels, you whip up the delicious ranch dip. Let’s check out the specific ingredients and how they come together.
What you’ll need
- 500 g fresh okra
- 1 cup buttermilk (plus 1/4 cup for the ranch)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
You can swap out fresh okra for frozen in a pinch, but fresh delivers the best texture and flavor. Similarly, if you don’t have buttermilk, regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar works well as a substitute.
