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Fried Okra

This crispy fried okra recipe uses a light batter made with cornstarch and carbonated water. I season the batter with chicken powder or Crispy Fry seasoning for extra flavor before frying the okra until golden and crunchy.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern / American
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Fresh Okra
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp Chicken Powder or Crispy Fry Seasoning Mix
  • 1/2 cup Pelligrino or other carbonated water of your choice.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • Cooking oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Okra

  • Wash the okra thoroughly.
  • Pat dry with paper towels.
  • Slice the okra into small rounds.

Optional Step for Tough Okra

  • If the okra pods are slightly tough, place 1 to 2 okra pods in a microwave-safe plate.
  • Microwave for 45 seconds to 1 minute to soften them before frying.
  • You may hear a few popping sounds, which means the okra is softening.

Prepare the Batter

  • In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and carbonated water.
  • Stir until the mixture forms a smooth batter.
  • Add chicken powder or Crispy Fry seasoning and black pepper.
  • Mix well.

Coat the Okra

  • Add the sliced okra into the batter.
  • Stir gently until the okra pieces are evenly coated.

Fry the Okra

  • Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add the coated okra in small batches.
  • Fry until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

For extra flavor, I sometimes use Crispy Fry seasoning in the batter. It adds seasoning and helps create a nice crispy coating.