air fried okra recipe

air fried okra recipe

The Best air fried okra recipe

I’ve been making air fried okra for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to make.

The best part is that it’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried okra, which we used to make all the time. The crispy exterior and tender interior are a perfect combination that everyone enjoys.

I’ve experimented with different seasonings and spices over the years, and I’ve found that a simple mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need to bring out the natural flavor of the okra. It’s also amazing how well this dish pairs with so many different side dishes, from classic Southern comfort foods like mashed potatoes and cornbread to more modern options like roasted vegetables and quinoa bowls.

One of the reasons I love air fried okra so much is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course if you’re feeling adventurous. And the best part?

It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings with friends and family. Over time, I’ve also come to appreciate the health benefits of this recipe – not only is it low in calories and fat compared to deep-fried alternatives, but it’s also packed with vitamins A and C from the okra itself.

As an added bonus, air frying eliminates the need for excess oil in cooking, which means less mess to clean up afterwards. This recipe has been a game-changer in our kitchen, and I’m confident it will be for yours too.

Crispy Air Fried Okra

Crispy Air Fried Okra

4.9 from 635 votes

This Air Fried Okra recipe is a healthier alternative to deep-fried okra. It is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Okra

1 lb okra
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp hot sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash okra thoroughly and trim the tops and bottoms.
2Pat dry with a paper towel until the okra is completely dry.
3This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
4Make sure to leave the okra whole, do not slice or cut it.
5In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
6Add the okra to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
7The okra should be well coated and the seasoning should be visible on the okra.
8Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
9Place the okra in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure the okra is not overcrowded.
10If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
11Air fry the okra at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
12Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
13The okra should be golden brown and crispy when done.
14While the okra is cooking, prepare the dipping sauce.
15In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, honey, and garlic powder until well combined.
16Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
17The sauce should be creamy and slightly spicy.
18Once the okra is done, transfer it to a serving plate.
19Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.
20The okra should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
21Enjoy as a side dish or a snack.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispiness, soak the okra in cold water for 30 minutes before patting dry and cooking. This helps to remove excess moisture from the okra. You can also adjust the spiciness of the dipping sauce by adding more or less hot sauce.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Air Fried Okra Works

One of my favorite things about this air fried okra recipe is that it’s so easy to customize for any occasion or dietary preference. For example, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the traditional cornmeal coating for gluten-free cornmeal or another grain-based coating.

You can also add some heat with red pepper flakes or other spicy seasonings if you prefer your food on the spicier side. Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – serve it as an appetizer with some tangy dipping sauce or as a main course paired with your favorite sides.

Whatever way you choose to enjoy air fried okra, rest assured that your taste buds will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Air Fried Okra

Q: What type of okra should I use for this recipe?

For air fried okra, you can use any variety of okra you like – but if you want the most tender results, look for pods that are about 4-6 inches long. You can find these at most grocery stores during peak season.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Sure thing! Air fried okra can be made up to 24 hours in advance – simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to reheat.

Q: How do I keep my air fried okra crispy?

To keep your air fried okra crispy for longer, try storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?

Frozen okra works just fine in this recipe – simply thaw it first by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into slices.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover air fried okra?

To reheat leftover air fried okra, simply place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through – usually around 5-7 minutes.

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