Classic Fried Okra and Tomatoes Recipe (Print Version)

Whip up this classic Southern comfort dish with fried okra and tomatoes. Simple, delicious, and perfect as a side for any meal.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Southern
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 pound fresh okra
02 - 2 pounds ripe tomatoes
03 - 1/2 cup fine yellow cornmeal
04 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

→ Seasonings & Spices

05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish & Toppings

09 - 2 tablespoons butter

→ Optional Extras

10 - Fresh herbs (basil, thyme)
11 - Cayenne pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Wash and trim the okra, then slice into 1/2-inch rounds. Be careful, this is where I always seem to cut my fingers!
02 - Wash and slice the tomatoes into roughly 1/2-inch thick slices. Don't worry about being perfect!
03 - Whisk together cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This smells amazing already!
04 - Add the okra to the breading and toss until evenly coated. I like to use my hands!
05 - Heat oil in a skillet. Once hot, add okra in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy (5-7 minutes per batch). This is my near-disaster step!
06 - Add the tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan!
07 - Remove from skillet, drain excess oil, stir in butter, and serve immediately!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the pan when frying!
02 - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.
03 - You can use all-purpose flour instead of cornmeal, but the texture won't be the same.
04 - Serve with creamy grits or fluffy biscuits for a complete Southern meal!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - heavy-bottomed pan
03 - paper towels

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 250 calories
Total Fat: 15 grams
Total Carbohydrate: 20 grams
Protein: 5 grams