Southern Fried Okra

Saw this recipe online and decided to post it here.  It is quick and easy and turns out a good product.  As I noted at the bottom of the recipe, I add a half cup of panko to the cornmeal-flour mixture for extra crispiness.
 
Southern Fried Okra


Ingredients:
1 pound fresh okra
2 eggs, beaten (OPTIONAL)
1 cup cornmeal (plain, not self-rising)
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup all-purpose flour (OPTIONAL)
½ teaspoon black pepper
Oil for frying (approx 4 - 6 cups)
~ If you'd like a spicier version, add ground cayenne pepper, onion & garlic powder to the cornmeal mixture or directly on the okra.

Preparation:
Wash okra; drain & cut off tips. Cut pods crosswise into 1/2-inch slices (another option, try cutting lengthwise too!).

Coat okra in salt, pepper & cornmeal mixture (should still be damp from just being washed). You can go straight to fryer at this point or continue with the next step & add egg if you'd like a thicker breading.

In a bowl, combine beaten eggs; add okra and stir to coat all pieces well. Then re-dip okra pieces into cornmeal mixture to coat well.

Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°-375°. Fry okra in batches until browned, about 4 to 6 minutes for each batch. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Serves 4.

Okra is delicious food and I  add 1/2 cup panko to fry mine; makes it even better!