Crispy Baked Okra Bites
Revitalize your palate with these Crispy Baked Okra Bites, a deliciously healthier twist on a classic Southern favorite. This recipe from the 'Southern but Lite' cookbook showcases the natural flavors of fresh okra, enhanced by a crunchy cornmeal coating that bakes to perfection in the oven. It's perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, providing a delightful crunch without the guilt of frying. Enjoy this nutrient-packed dish that invites a taste of the South right into your home.
8
Servings
40
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cornmeal
1 1/4 cups (Unseasoned)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Black Pepper
To taste (Freshly ground)
Fresh Okra
4 cups (Washed and sliced)
Nonstick Cooking Spray
As needed (For greasing the pan)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Lightly coat a large cookie sheet or jellyroll pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
4
Thoroughly wash the okra under cold water, then drain it completely.
5
Trim the ends of the okra pods and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
6
If the okra seems dry, rinse them under cold water again; this helps the cornmeal mixture adhere better.
7
Dredge each slice of okra in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
8
Spread the coated okra pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
9
Bake the okra in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy, stirring occasionally to promote even browning.
10
Once done, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your healthier Southern snack!
Nutrition Information
0.5g
Fat
8g
Carbs
1g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Baked Okra Bites?
They are a healthier, oven-baked version of traditional Southern fried okra, featuring a crunchy cornmeal coating.
How many calories are in one serving of Crispy Baked Okra Bites?
Each serving contains approximately 40 calories.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses only plant-based ingredients like okra and cornmeal, making it vegan-friendly.
Is this okra recipe gluten-free?
Yes, cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, so this recipe is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to bake the okra?
The okra should bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and crispy.
How thick should I slice the okra pods?
The okra should be sliced into rounds approximately 1/2-inch thick.
What is the main coating for the okra?
The coating is a simple mixture of unseasoned cornmeal, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
How do I get the cornmeal to stick to the okra?
If the okra seems too dry, rinse the slices under cold water again before dredging them in the cornmeal mixture.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Do I need to use oil for frying?
No, this recipe is baked. You only need a light coating of nonstick cooking spray on the baking sheet.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 0.5g of fat.
Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?
The recipe specifies fresh okra for the best texture and flavor.
What type of baking pan is best?
A large cookie sheet or a jellyroll pan works best for spreading the okra in a single layer.
Do I need to stir the okra while it bakes?
Yes, stirring occasionally helps ensure the okra browns evenly on all sides.
How much okra do I need for this recipe?
You will need 4 cups of fresh okra.
How much cornmeal is required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 cups of unseasoned cornmeal.
Is there any protein in this dish?
Yes, there is approximately 1g of protein per serving.
What is the fiber content?
Each serving provides about 1.5g of fiber.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol?
Based on the ingredients, this recipe contains 0mg of cholesterol.
Can I serve this as an appetizer?
Absolutely, it works perfectly as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
What cookbook is this recipe from?
This recipe is featured in the 'Southern but Lite' cookbook.
Should the okra be washed before slicing?
Yes, thoroughly wash the okra under cold water and drain it completely before trimming and slicing.
Is salt used in the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is mixed into the cornmeal, or added to taste.
What should I do after the okra finishes baking?
Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to maintain its crispness.
Why is it important to use a single layer on the pan?
A single layer prevents overcrowding, which ensures the okra bakes rather than steams, resulting in a crispier texture.
Can I add more spices?
Yes, though the recipe suggests salt and pepper, you can customize the cornmeal with other spices like garlic powder or cayenne if desired.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is a nutrient-packed, low-calorie alternative to traditional fried okra.
What is the category of this recipe?
It is categorized as a Vegetable dish.