Authentic Southern Fried Okra Recipe

Ingredients for Authentic Southern Fried Okra

• Fresh Okra
• All Purpose Flour
• 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lard

How to Make Authentic Southern Fried Okra

1. Wash the okra and cut into 1/2-inch rounds.
2. Place the okra rounds in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of flour.
3. Gently toss the okra to coat. Then, place the okra in a wire mesh strainer and shake vigorously to remove excess flour. The final flour coating should be very light.
4. Return the okra to the mixing bowl and add the beaten egg.
5. Stir gently to coat each piece of okra evenly.
6. Place the cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a large resealable zipper bag.
7. Add the okra to the bag in 1-cup batches. Seal the bag and shake until each piece is thoroughly coated with the cornmeal mixture.
8. Remove the okra from the bag, allowing excess cornmeal to fall back into the bag. Place the coated okra on a plate until all okra is coated.
9. Heat 1/2 inch of lard or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (approximately 400°F).
10. Carefully add the okra to the hot oil in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
11. Remove the fried okra with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
12. Season with additional salt to taste, if desired.
13. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, flavorful Southern Fried Okra!