Heart of the South Fried Okra – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

A Crispy Southern Heritage Recipe That Celebrates a Beloved Classic

Golden, crispy, and full of Southern charm, Heart of the South Fried Okra is a timeless side dish that showcases one of the South’s most cherished vegetables. Coated in seasoned cornmeal and fried until perfectly crisp, this Heritage Recipe transforms fresh okra into a delicious accompaniment for barbecue, fried chicken, fish, or Sunday dinner.

Featured as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this dish honors generations of African American home cooks who made fresh, seasonal vegetables the heart of family meals. Simple ingredients and careful frying create a crunchy exterior while preserving okra’s tender interior.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 1 pound okra
• 1 cup cornmeal
• ½ cup Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper

Makes: 4 to 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse the okra thoroughly and remove the stem caps. Slice the pods into ½-inch pieces.
2. Toss the sliced okra with the cornmeal until each piece is evenly coated.
3. Heat the Crisco Shortening or Crisco Oil to 365°F in a large electric skillet or heavy skillet.
4. Carefully add the coated okra to the hot oil and fry for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pieces are evenly golden brown.
5. Avoid overcooking, as the okra can become too crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
6. Season immediately with salt and freshly ground pepper, then serve hot.

Note: Fry small whole okra if preferred.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Use fresh, young okra for the most tender texture and best flavor.
• Dry the okra thoroughly before coating to help the cornmeal adhere.
• Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even browning.
• Serve immediately for the crispiest results.
• Pair with fried catfish, barbecue, grilled meats, or black-eyed peas for a traditional Southern meal.

About the Cookbook

Compiled by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., The Black Family Reunion Cookbook preserves the treasured recipes and food traditions of African American families. Heritage Recipes like Heart of the South Fried Okra celebrate simple, time-honored dishes that have brought families together around the dinner table for generations while honoring the rich legacy of Southern Black cooking.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a remarkable collection of heritage recipes, family favorites, and regional dishes that celebrate the enduring traditions of African American cuisine.