Discover the Best Cornmeal for Perfectly Crispy Fried Okra Every Time!

Fried okra is a Southern delicacy that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. The key to making the perfect fried okra is to use the right cornmeal.

What to Look for in Cornmeal for Fried Okra

When choosing cornmeal for fried okra, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Grind: The grind of the cornmeal will affect the texture of your fried okra. A fine grind will produce a more delicate okra, while a coarse grind will produce a more rustic okra.
• Color: The color of the cornmeal will also affect the color of your fried okra. White cornmeal will produce a lighter-colored okra, while yellow cornmeal will produce a darker-colored okra.
• Flavor: The flavor of the cornmeal will also affect the flavor of your fried okra. Some cornmeals have a more pronounced flavor than others.

The Best Cornmeal for Fried Okra

After testing several different brands and types of cornmeal, we have determined that the best cornmeal for fried okra is Martha White Self-Rising Cornmeal. This cornmeal is made from finely ground white corn and has a light, delicate flavor. It produces a crispy, golden-brown okra that is sure to please everyone at your table.

Other Good Cornmeal Options

If you can’t find Martha White Self-Rising Cornmeal, there are a few other good cornmeal options that you can use for fried okra:

• Bob’s Red Mill Fine Grind Cornmeal: This cornmeal is made from finely ground yellow corn and has a slightly sweet flavor. It produces a crispy, golden-brown okra that is slightly more rustic than the okra made with Martha White Self-Rising Cornmeal.
• Hodgson Mill Stone Ground Cornmeal: This cornmeal is made from stone-ground white corn and has a nutty flavor. It produces a crispy, golden-brown okra that is slightly more coarse than the okra made with Martha White Self-Rising Cornmeal.

How to Make Fried Okra

Once you have chosen the right cornmeal, you can start making your fried okra. Here is a simple recipe:
1. Ingredients:

• 1 pound okra, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

2. Instructions:
1. Preheat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
4. Dip the okra into the egg mixture, then into the cornmeal mixture.
5. Fry the okra in the hot oil until golden brown on all sides.
6. Drain the okra on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Best Fried Okra

• Use fresh okra. Fresh okra will have a better flavor and texture than frozen okra.
• Cut the okra into uniform pieces. This will help the okra cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will prevent the okra from cooking evenly.
• Fry the okra until it is golden brown. This will ensure that the okra is cooked through.
• Drain the okra on paper towels before serving. This will help to remove any excess oil.

Conclusion: The Perfect Cornmeal for the Perfect Fried Okra

The right cornmeal can make all the difference in the taste and texture of your fried okra. By following our tips, you can choose the best cornmeal for your needs and make the perfect fried okra every time.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What is the difference between white cornmeal and yellow cornmeal?
A: White cornmeal is made from white corn, while yellow cornmeal is made from yellow corn. White cornmeal has a lighter flavor and color than yellow cornmeal.
Q: What is the best way to store cornmeal?
A: Cornmeal should be stored in a cool, dry place. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Q: Can I use cornmeal to make other dishes besides fried okra?
A: Yes, cornmeal can be used to make a variety of dishes, including cornbread, hush puppies, and corn muffins.