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fried okra with dipping sauce
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Deep Fried Okra Recipe

Learn how to make perfectly crispy southern fried okra with this easy step-by-step recipe. No slime, just crunch.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 233kcal
Author Mirlene

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8-10 Whole Fresh Okra; Sliced In Two
  • 1 Egg With ½ Cup Water
  • Salt And Pepper To Taste
  • 1 Tsp. Paprika
  • 1 ½ Cup Breadcrumbs; More If Needed
  • 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
  • Oil For Frying

Instructions

  • In one bowl, whisk together:
    ½ cup water, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 tsp. paprika, 1 tsp. garlic powder
    This is your wet mixture. It helps everything stick and creates that light, crispy layer.
    In two separate bowls:
    Add 1 cup all-purpose flour in one bowl. Add 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
    Take each piece of okra and transfer it into your flour and dip it into the water mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
    learn how to make southern fried okra
  • Then transfer breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks well.
    Set the coated okra aside on a plate.
    In a deep pan, deep fryer or skillet, heat your oil to 350°F.
    If you don’t have a thermometer, test with a small piece—if it sizzles immediately but doesn’t burn, you’re ready.
    Carefully place small batches of okra into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps keep everything crispy instead of soggy.
    Fry for about 3–5 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
    Once done, remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
    okra in frying basket

Notes

Quick FAQ

Why breadcrumbs instead of cornmeal?
Breadcrumbs give you that thicker, crunchier coating—almost like a crispy crust.
Can I use frozen okra?
You can, but make sure it’s fully thawed and dried well before coating.
How do I reheat it?
Use the air fryer or oven to bring back the crispiness—avoid the microwave.
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Calories are estimated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 4servings | Calories: 233kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 85mg | Potassium: 14mg | Fiber: 13g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 13mg