Cooking method
- Start by slicing the fresh okra into rounds.
- Soak the sliced okra in 1 cup of buttermilk for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each okra slice evenly in the dry mixture, shaking off any excess.
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.
- Carefully place the coated okra in the hot oil, frying a few pieces at a time until golden and crispy—about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- For the ranch dip, whisk together the mayonnaise, 1/4 cup buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic powder, and chopped parsley or dill until smooth.
- Serve the crispy okra hot with the buttermilk ranch on the side.
Best ways to enjoy it
Enjoy fried okra as an appetizer at your next party or as a satisfying side dish alongside grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or can be used as a topping on your favorite burger for added crunch. For a twist, try serving it with a spicy aioli or adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top!
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten fried okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in an oven to regain that crispy texture instead of the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the raw, battered okra before frying. Just be sure to separate them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag to avoid sticking.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture. You can test it by dropping in a small piece of okra—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
- Cut the okra into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, like cayenne pepper or garlic powder, to suit your taste preferences.
Creative twists
For a fun take on this classic dish, consider trying different coatings such as panko breadcrumbs or adding grated cheese to the cornmeal mixture for a cheesy crunch. You can also substitute the buttermilk in the ranch dressing with Greek yogurt for a healthier spin. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in about 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen okra, but be sure to thaw and dry them completely before coating and frying to avoid excess moisture.
How do I make this dish healthier?
You can make a baked version by coating the okra with a mixture of olive oil and seasoning, then bake them in the oven at a high temperature until crispy. Squash the ranch dressing with some Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie option.
Ready to indulge in the crispy goodness of fried okra with buttermilk ranch? Your taste buds will thank you!
