Prepare to transform the humble okra into an irresistible, golden-brown delicacy that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! These crispy okra chips are not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that combines Southern charm with addictive crunch. Whether you're a vegetable skeptic or a true foodie, these perfectly seasoned, light-as-air chips will challenge everything you thought you knew about healthy snacking.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Wash the okra thoroughly under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Slice okra into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended and evenly distributed.
- Prepare a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer by heating vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Dredge each okra slice completely in the seasoned cornmeal-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Gently shake off excess coating.
- Carefully place coated okra slices into the hot oil in small batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove okra chips using a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
- Transfer crispy okra chips to a serving platter and serve immediately alongside the ranch dressing for dipping.
- For best texture, consume okra chips within 15-20 minutes of frying to maintain maximum crispiness.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Ensure okra is completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness. Pat slices thoroughly with paper towels.
- Temperature Matters: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain oil at exactly 350°F for even, golden-brown chips.
- Batch Frying is Key: Don't overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each chip gets perfectly crisp.
- Drain Smartly: Use a wire rack over paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping chips crisp instead of soggy.
- Serve Immediately: These chips are best enjoyed within 15-20 minutes of frying for optimal texture and flavor.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding cayenne, garlic powder, or smoked paprika to the cornmeal mixture for extra flavor complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 366kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
