Are you looking for a healthy and delicious side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for oven-fried okra delivers all the crispy, flavorful goodness of traditional fried okra without all the guilt. It's a perfect addition to any barbecue, weeknight dinner, or potluck, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing taste. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes, making it a winner for busy weeknights. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra flavor and tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for achieving that perfectly crispy texture.
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Prepare the okra: Wash and trim the okra, removing the stems. Slice the okra into 1/2-inch rounds. Thicker slices will take longer to cook.
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Make the flour mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed.
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Coat the okra: Add the milk or buttermilk to the flour mixture and whisk until a smooth batter forms. Add the okra to the bowl and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Arrange on the baking sheet: Arrange the coated okra in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
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Drizzle with oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the okra or lightly spray with cooking spray.
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Bake until crispy: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the okra is golden brown and crispy. You may need to flip the okra halfway through for even browning.
Cooking Tips for the Best Oven-Fried Okra:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of crisping. Work in batches if necessary.
- Pat the okra dry: Before coating the okra, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help it crisp up better.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of your oven-fried okra. Italian seasoning, cumin, or even a little smoked paprika would be delicious additions.
- Serve immediately: Oven-fried okra is best served hot and crispy, right out of the oven.
Variations:
- Spicy Okra: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Herby Okra: Add some fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme to the flour mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Parmesan Okra: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the okra before baking for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate for a serving of oven-fried okra (about 1 cup) might be:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This oven-fried okra recipe offers a healthier, delicious alternative to deep-fried versions, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking and best recipes. Enjoy!