Fried Okra

Fried Okra 1 pound fresh okra pods 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 1 cup all purpose flour 1/2 cup cornmeal 3 teaspoons salt 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon pepper vegetable oil for frying 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional Heat 3 inches of oil in a deep pot to 375 degrees F. Remove the stem ends of the okra. Slice each okra pod into 3/4 inch thick pieces. Place the okra slices in a bowl along with the buttermilk; toss to coat evenly. Place the flour, cornmeal, salt, paprika garlic powder and pepper in a medium sized bowl. Stir to combine. Dredge each piece of okra in the flour mixture, making sure it's coated evenly. Repeat the process with the remaining okra pieces. Fry 10 pieces of okra at a time for 3 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with parsley if desired, then serve.