Okra Fries Recipe

Calendar icon Published: Oct 18th 2021 by Rachael Ottier Hart
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 16th 2024
Read time: 4 mins
Cuisine:
This recipe, developed through the collective effort of at least 6 experts, underwent meticulous research and testing for over 3 months. Learn more about our process in the art and science behind our recipes or read how we use AI responsibly. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy.
Okra Fries in box container

Okra Fries are a deliciously crispy, healthy snack or side dish that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients and health benefits. These crunchy treats are a fantastic way to enjoy okra in a new, exciting form. With a perfect blend of spices and a light coating of arrowroot starch, these fries deliver a satisfying crunch without deep-frying. Perfect for anyone looking to try something different, these okra fries are easy to make in either an oven or air fryer.

  • Nutrient-Dense: Okra is packed with fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
  • Low-Calorie and Gluten-Free: Enjoy a guilt-free snack that fits well with low-carb and gluten-free diets.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10-15 minutes, these fries offer a convenient snack or side dish.
  • Versatile: Easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste or pair with your favorite dip for extra flavor.

  • Dry Okra Thoroughly: Ensure okra is completely dry to prevent excess moisture, which can affect crispiness.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Whether using an oven or air fryer, arrange okra in a single layer to get the best crisp.
  • Flip Halfway: For even cooking, flip the okra fries halfway through the cooking time.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices, adding cayenne for heat or a dash of cumin for extra depth.

Serve these Okra Fries as a standalone snack with a creamy dipping sauce like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or ranch dressing. They also make a fantastic, crunchy side to a main dish like grilled chicken or a hearty salad. These fries pair well with refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea for a balanced snack or meal.

  • Oil Alternatives: Use olive oil or avocado oil if coconut oil is unavailable.
  • Different Coating: Substitute arrowroot with cornstarch or potato starch for a similar crispy result.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for extra heat.
  • Herbed Option: Mix in dried rosemary or thyme for a unique, herby flavor.

To store leftovers, allow the okra fries to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

  • Fresh Okra: The star of this recipe, providing a natural crunch and fiber boost.
  • Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the okra.
  • Arrowroot Starch: Coats the okra to give it a crispy, light texture without frying.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika enhance the flavor, giving these fries a savory kick.

Can I make Okra Fries without an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake them in an oven preheated to 400°F on a baking sheet with a wire rack for similar crispiness.

How do I keep okra from getting slimy?

Drying the okra thoroughly before coating and spacing them out during cooking minimizes moisture, preventing slime.

Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?

Fresh okra is recommended for the best texture, but you can use thawed, frozen okra if you pat them dry well.

Rate
Average: 5 (5 votes)
Total rating includes sum of all comments and anonymous votes.

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Time & Serves

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
25 mins
Serves
4

Ingredients

  • 1 Lb Fresh Okra

  • 2 tablespoons Coconut oil

  • 3 tablespoons Arrowroot Starch

  • 1 teaspoon Salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika

Instructions

For the oven: Preheat to 400°F (204°C) and place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet.

For the air fryer: Preheat to 400°F (204°C).

Wash and dry the okra thoroughly. Trim the tops, slice each pod in half lengthwise, and place in a mixing bowl.

Drizzle coconut oil over the okra and toss to coat.

In a small bowl, mix the arrowroot starch, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

Add the seasoning mix to the okra and toss until each piece is well coated.

Spread the seasoned okra evenly on the wire rack (for the oven) or in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between pieces for crisping.

Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the okra and cook for another 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Remove from the oven or air fryer and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

Rachael Ottier Hart
Author:
Culinary Storyteller & Spa Manager

More posts by Rachael Ottier Hart

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Pamela Hughes (not verified)

Your instructions are confusing? It looks like you have two different methods combined

Permalink 27 Oct 2024

Classic Bakes

Dear Pamela, thank you for your feedback! We’re always aiming to make our recipes as clear and easy to follow as possible. Based on your input, we’ve revised the instructions to streamline the steps and separate the two preparation methods, so it’s now much easier to follow. We hope this helps, and please let us know if you have any other suggestions or questions. Enjoy making your okra fries!

Permalink 29 Oct 2024

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