Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This oven-fried okra recipe delivers all that and more, making it a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner or summer barbecue. Forget greasy, deep-fried versions – this method provides that satisfying crunch without the guilt. It's one of those easy recipes that’s both quick and impressive.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and washed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Okra: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the ends off the okra. For even cooking and optimal crispiness, you can optionally slice the okra into 1/2-inch rounds.
Step 2: Create the Coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Okra: Add the okra to the bowl and toss gently until it's evenly coated with the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-dusted.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the coated okra, tossing again to distribute it evenly. This helps achieve that wonderfully crispy exterior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Spread the okra in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it – oven temperatures can vary.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! Remove from the oven and serve immediately. This oven-fried okra is delicious as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or even alongside your favorite healthy meals.
Tips for Crispy Okra:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the okra is in a single layer to allow for even browning and crisping.
- Flip halfway through: This ensures that both sides get beautifully golden and crispy.
- Adjust baking time: Depending on your oven and the size of your okra pieces, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on it and remove when it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Variations:
- Spicy Okra: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
- Herby Okra: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning into the flour mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
- Parmesan Okra: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the okra before baking for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy alternative to deep-fried okra. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the exact quantities used but generally provides a good source of fiber and vitamins. For precise nutritional details, use a nutritional calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities.
This oven-fried okra recipe is a simple yet impressive addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s a delicious and healthy side dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy! It's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of delicious dishes made with homemade cooking. This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.