Fried Okra

 Prep Time:  20 minutes    Cook Time:  20 minut

Serves 6

1  lb fresh okra

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

1 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

3 tsp salt

1/4 smoked paprika

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp pepper

vegetable oil for frying

2 Tbsp chopped parsley, optional for garnish

1.  Heat 3 inches of oil in a cast iron skillet to 375 degrees.

2.  Remove the stem ends of the okra.  Slice each okra into 3/4 inch thick pieces.

3.  Place the okra slices in a bowl along with the buttermilk; toss to coat evenly.

4.  Place the flour, cornmeal, salt, paprika, garlic powder and pepper in a medium sized bowl.  Stir to combine.

5.  Dredge each piece of okra in the flour mixture, making sure it's coated evenly.  Repeat the process with the remaining okra pieces.

6.  Fry okra in a single layer for 3 minutes or until golden brown.  Set aside on a paper towel lined plate.  Continue to fry the rest of the okra in batches so as not to crowd the pan.