Last Updated on August 10, 2026 by Carrie Korem, FNTP
My mom used to make this simple fried okra recipe with cornmeal every summer when okra was in season. It’s such an easy and healthy way to enjoy okra!
Ingredients for Fried Okra
Fresh okra
Yellow onion
Ground masa (you can also use organic cornmeal)
Celtic sea salt
Ghee
What is the Best Oil for Frying Okra
When it comes to healthy oils for frying, my favorites are ghee, lard and tallow. All three of these oils are stable at high heats so they won’t oxidize and will nourish the body with omegas and vitamin A.
What is the Healthiest Cornmeal for Frying Okra?
It’s best to choose a cornmeal that is organic since most corn is GMO and it’s best to avoid GMOs as much as possible. I personally like to use masa because the corn is already soaked (aka nixtamalized) to reduce the anti-nutrients and it transforms the calcium, iron, vitamin B3, and fiber in the kernels so that it can be easily digested.
What is the Best Way to Prepare Okra Before Frying?
Wash the okra, pat it dry and then cut into 1″ pieces.
How to Serve Fried Okra
I like to serve it with dishes such as roast chicken and baked garden tomatoes. Growing up, my mom would serve fried okra with black-eyed peas, fresh sliced tomatoes and cantaloupe.
I hope you enjoy!
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Simple Fried Okra recipe
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Diet: Gluten-Free
- 4 cups fresh okra, cut into 1/2-inch rounds, ends discarded
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup ground masa (you can also use cornmeal)
- 2 teaspoons Celtic sea salt
- 4 tablespoons ghee
Instructions
Toss the okra, onion, masa, and salt together in a large bowl. Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the ghee to the pan and swirl to coat. Pour the okra mixture into the skillet and stir every few minutes, for about 30 minutes until golden.Â
