Air Fryer Okra
Air fryer okra is not only a delicious side dish or appetizer option but also a healthier one, retaining around 36% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C while using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This makes it a nutritious and lower-calorie alternative, allowing you to enjoy its unique flavor and health benefits without the added fat.
Okra is known for its unique texture, which becomes slightly mucilaginous when cooked, making it a popular thickening agent in dishes like gumbo. Nutritionally, it is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. The plant itself is also quite distinct, featuring large, hibiscus-like flowers and large leaves.
Fried okra is a delicious Southern dish that pairs well with a variety of dips. Here are some great options to consider:
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice, ranch dressing provides a cool, creamy contrast to the crispy fried okra.
- Remoulade Sauce: This zesty sauce, made with mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and spices, adds a nice kick to fried okra.
- Honey Mustard: A combination of honey and mustard offers a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory okra.
- Chipotle Aioli: A spicy mayo made with chipotle peppers adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy texture of fried okra.
- Spicy Ketchup: Mix ketchup with hot sauce or chili powder for a spicy twist that can elevate the taste of fried okra.
- Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, buffalo sauce can be a fantastic dip that adds a bold flavor.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth avocado dip made with lime juice and garlic gives a refreshing option that’s perfect for dipping.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: For blue cheese lovers, this rich and tangy dip can be a great accompaniment to fried foods.
- Garlic Parmesan Dip: A simple mix of melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously rich dip.
- Salsa: A fresh salsa can add a zesty kick, especially if you choose a spicy variety.
Air Fryer Okra
In addition to being very tasty, okra is packed with nutrients. One of them is vitamin C – about 36 percent of the daily recommended amount. Air fryer okra uses much less oil than frying in the skillet.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 1 (12 ounce) bag frozen cut okra
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup (more or less) cornmeal or Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher or sea salt to taste
- Oil or non-silicone cooking spray of choice
Instructions
- Mix egg and milk in a medium-size bowl. Pour cornmeal or bread crumbs into a pie plate. Dip frozen okra cuts into egg-milk mixture to coat and lift out with a slotted spoon and put them into the cornmeal or bread crumbs. Cover the egg-dipped okra with the cornmeal or bread crumbs and place into air fryer basket in a single layer. Spritz with oil or non-silicone cooking spray. Fry at 400 degrees F for 5 minutes.
- Remove basket from air fryer and stir okra. Return to air fryer and continue frying at 400 degrees F for 4 to 5 more minutes.
- Sprinkle with kosher or sea salt and serve.
Notes
As with all air fryers, the time may have to be adjusted up or down. It doesn’t hurt to keep checking.
Photo credit: (c) Can Stock Photo bhofack2

