Fried Okra Southern Style

1-1/2 cups sliced fresh or frozen okra, thawed

3 tablespoons buttermilk

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornmeal

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon garlic herb seasoning blend

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Oil for deep-fat frying

Additional salt and pepper, optional

Directions

• Pat okra dry with paper towels. Place buttermilk in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, seasoning blend and pepper. Dip okra in buttermilk, then roll in cornmeal mixture.
• In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat 1 in. of oil to 375°. Fry okra, a few pieces at a time, for 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.