If you’re on the hunt for a delightful Southern treat that’s crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make, look no further than Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra! This dish embodies the essence of Southern cooking — heartwarming, uncomplicated, and guaranteed to evoke fond memories of home. Did you know that frying okra is a time-honored tradition in many Southern families? It’s often a star at picnics, family gatherings, and potlucks, bringing everyone together over its irresistible crunch and savory taste.
Buttermilk Fried Okra stands out not only because of its delightful crunch but also due to its simplicity in preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that even your picky eaters will love! If you enjoy these fried delights, you might also want to check out our Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes recipe for another family-friendly favorite. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor — let’s get cooking!
What is Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra?
So, what’s behind the name Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra? You might wonder if such a bold title is justified. Trust us, it absolutely is! Just like there’s an unspoken competition about who makes the best sweet tea, fried okra is a beloved Southern staple that claims its rightful place on many menus. Known for its unique texture, this dish combines the gooeyness of okra with a light, crispy coating, delivering a party in your mouth. After all, it’s said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and okra just might be the perfect bait! Why not give it a whirl and see for yourself?
Why You’ll Love This Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this recipe. First and foremost, the highlight of Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra is its crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts the tender, flavorful okra inside. It’s the type of dish that keeps you reaching for just one more bite! Secondly, making this dish at home means you can savor the incredible taste without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to overpriced appetizers at restaurants, and hello to a more budget-friendly option!
Finally, what truly makes this dish special is the buttermilk marinade that infuses the okra with robust flavor before it’s coated in cornmeal and flour. For those who enjoy a delicious twist on traditional fried veggies, this dish will have you feeling adventurous! If you’re in the mood for more veggie goodness, try pairing it with our Southern Collard Greens recipe for a beautifully balanced meal.
How to Make Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra
Quick Overview
Whipping up a batch of Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra is simple and immensely satisfying! With a cook time of about 15 to 20 minutes, you can serve these crunchy bites as a side dish or a snack anytime the craving strikes. The ingredients required are well within reach, and the preparation is straightforward. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can get cookin’!
Key Ingredients for Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra
- 1 pound fresh okra, sliced
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying
Here’s a visual of the ingredients you’ll need:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Okra: Rinse and slice the fresh okra into small rounds. This allows for maximum crunch when fried.
- Marinate: In a bowl, soak the sliced okra in buttermilk. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb that creamy goodness.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, and black pepper. This will coat the okra and create that delicious crunch.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that a small drop of batter sizzles in the oil!
- Coat the Okra: Take each okra slice out of the buttermilk and dredge it in the cornmeal mixture. Ensure each piece is generously coated for ultimate crunch.
- Fry: Carefully add the coated okra to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, flipping once.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, place the fried okra on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy on its own as a snack!
What to Serve Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra With
Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra pairs beautifully with so many dishes! Consider serving it alongside crispy fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or barbecue sandwiches for a full Southern feast. It also makes a fantastic snack, perfect for tailgating or family game nights. For beverages, a tall glass of sweet tea or lemonade will complement the flavors wonderfully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra
- Freshness Matters: Always use fresh okra for the best flavor and texture. Frozen okra can become mushy when fried!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in smaller batches to maintain a consistent temperature of the oil, ensuring a crispy coating.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to personalize the seasoning in your cornmeal mixture. A touch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder can add a nice kick!
- Resting Time: Allow the coated okra to sit for a few minutes after dredging but before frying. This gives the coating a chance to adhere and form a better crust.
Storing and Reheating Tips
For any leftovers, store your fried okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the okra on a baking sheet for about 7-10 minutes. If you’d like to freeze it, be sure to lay the fried okra in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen solid. Fried okra can last up to 2 months in the freezer — perfect for a future snack attack!
If you’re seeking a quick, delicious addition to your meals, Best Ever Buttermilk Fried Okra is waiting for you to give it a try! Embrace the crunch and enjoy this Southern classic that will soon become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
Buttermilk Fried Okra
Ingredients
For the Okra
- 1 pound fresh okra, sliced Use fresh okra for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup buttermilk For marinating the okra.
For the Coating
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
For Frying
- Cooking oil For frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse and slice the fresh okra into small rounds.
- In a bowl, soak the sliced okra in buttermilk for about 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Take each okra slice out of the buttermilk and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- Carefully add coated okra to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, flipping once.
- Drain fried okra on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Serving
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy on its own as a snack.
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