Blackened Seasoning Fried Okra

Ingredients

• 1 pound Fresh okra, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 cup Yellow cornmeal
• 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 cups Peanut oil for frying

Instructions

1. 1

   Place the sliced okra in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over it, tossing to coat every piece thoroughly.

2. 2

   In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. 3

   Heat the peanut oil in a heavy cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. 4

   Working in small batches, remove okra from the buttermilk and dredge in the blackened spice and cornmeal mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.

5. 5

   Carefully drop the coated okra into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan which would drop the temperature.

6. 6

   Fry the okra for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is a deep, dark golden brown and crispy.

7. 7

   Use a slotted spoon to remove the okra and place it on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.

8. 8

   Serve immediately while hot, optionally with a side of spicy remoulade sauce for dipping.