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Air Fryer Okra

Air Fryer Okra
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Air Fryer Okra is a quick, healthy, and crispy snack or side dish made by air frying fresh okra pods coated lightly with oil and spices. This recipe delivers golden, crunchy okra bites with minimal oil and fuss, perfect for busy weeknights, flavorful gatherings, or a kid-friendly vegetable snack.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh Okra – 12 oz (about 3 cups)
  • Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – 1 to 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika or Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
  • Cornmeal (Optional) – 2 tablespoons

Optional Variations

  • Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder – ¼ to ½ teaspoon for a spicy kick
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese – 2 tablespoons, to sprinkle after air frying
  • Dried Italian Herbs or Fresh Parsley – 1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh, for herb infusion
  • Almond Flour or Crushed Gluten-Free Crackers – substitute for cornmeal for gluten-free crunch
  • Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon, toss before air frying to brighten flavors

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Okra: Wash the fresh okra pods and dry them thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Ensuring they are completely dry helps achieve a crispy finish.
  2. Season the Okra: Slice the okra into ½-inch thick rounds or keep the pods whole based on preference. Toss with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil until lightly coated. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder, paprika (or smoked paprika), salt, and black pepper over the okra. Optionally, add cornmeal for extra crunch or any variations like cayenne or herbs.
  3. Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the okra in a single layer in the air fryer basket, allowing room for hot air circulation to promote even crisping.
  4. Cook the Okra: Air fry the okra for 10 to 15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake or toss the basket gently to ensure even cooking and browning. Watch closely during the last few minutes to avoid burning while reaching desired crispiness.
  5. Serve Immediately: Once done, serve the Air Fryer Okra hot and fresh. Pair it with your favorite dips like spicy ranch, garlic aioli, or tangy yogurt dips, or use as a crunchy side for meals.

Notes

  • Dry is Key: Thoroughly dry okra before seasoning to enhance crispiness.
  • Single Layer Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and proper crispiness.
  • Shake or Toss: Shake the basket halfway through cooking for golden, even results.
  • Watch Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on air fryer size and model; monitor closely near the end.
  • Use Fresh Okra: Fresh, firm pods cook best; older or slimy okra will not crisp well.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer okra, crispy okra, healthy okra snack, gluten free appetizer, air fryer side dish, quick vegetable snack

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/air-fryer-okra/