Crispy Fried Okra with Green Tomatoes: A Southern Comfort Side Dish

This recipe for crispy fried okra with green tomatoes is a nod to Southern cooking at its finest. Combining tender okra with tangy green tomatoes, this simple yet flavorful dish makes a perfect side for any meal. Whether you use fresh or frozen okra, the results are consistently golden, crispy, and delicious. This timeless recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying crunch every time!

Ingredients for Fried Okra with Green Tomatoes

• 12 oz frozen cut okra, thawed (340 g)
• 1 large green tomato, chopped into large pieces
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (180 mL)
• All-purpose flour (amount as needed)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions for Making Fried Okra with Green Tomatoes

Step 1: Prep the Okra and Tomatoes

1. Place the thawed okra and chopped green tomatoes in a bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the vegetables are well coated.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step enhances the flavor and ensures the coating adheres well.
3. When ready to fry, remove the bowl from the refrigerator and drain off the excess buttermilk.

Step 2: Coat the Vegetables

1. Add about 1 cup of all-purpose flour (120 g) to a resealable plastic bag, such as a Ziploc.
2. Add a few handfuls of the okra and tomatoes to the bag. Seal the bag and shake it thoroughly to coat the vegetables evenly with flour.

Step 3: Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Using your hands or a slotted spoon, remove the okra and tomatoes from the bag, shaking off any excess flour.
3. Carefully drop them into the hot oil.
4. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until the pieces are golden brown. This typically takes about 2–3 minutes per batch.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

1. Remove the fried vegetables with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined pan. Ensure the pieces don’t overlap to maintain crispiness.
2. Continue frying in batches, adding more flour to the bag as needed.
3. Once all the vegetables are fried, sprinkle them lightly with salt and serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Fried Okra with Green Tomatoes

• Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh okra is ideal, frozen okra works just as well. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly before using.
• Even Coating: Shake off excess flour to prevent the oil from becoming gummy and to ensure a crisp, even fry.
• Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C) for consistent results. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.

Bon appetite!