Crispy fried okra, referred to as fry ochro in Trinidad & Tobago, is one of my favorite vegan dishes. The crispiness is so addicting, I can and do enjoy it as a snack. However, when accompanied by one of Trinidad’s famous rotis, including sada roti , dosti roti or paratha roti, it is the perfection savory and comforting combination. Fried okra can also be enjoyed with freshly steamed jasmine rice and creamy dhal. It’s the perfect vegan or vegetarian meal; tasty and satisfying.
In this crispy fried okra recipe, okra is sliced thinly, aired dried overnight in a sheet on the counter or under the blazing mid day sun, then shallow fried with sliced onion, crushed garlic and hot pepper in oil until it achieves a surprising crispiness. The air and sun drying eliminates the sliminess that dissuades many from this nutritious vegetable.
In the linked video, I teach you the other secrets to ensure that the result is crisp and delicious. Watch the video to learn how to achieve the best results!
When buying okra, choose young okra so ensure that it is not woody when fried.
Give this crispy fried okra recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed.
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Crispy Fried Okra | Fried Ochro
Equipment
- Non stick pot or dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ochro stems removed and sliced (454 g)
- 1 small onion sliced (2 oz)
- 4 cloves garlic finely diced
- 6 tbs extra virgin olive oil
- Hot pepper sliced to taste
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
Instructions
- Rinse and drain okra until dry. Cut off the stems and slice into thin rounds.
- Place in a single layer on a sheet pan or tray and air dry overnight or a couple of hours on the kitchen counter. Alternatively, you may place the sheet pan outside in direct sun on a hot day.
- Heat oil, preferably in a non-stick frying pan, over medium heat. Add okra and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 5 minutes untouched, or until the bottom is crisp and brown. Add onion, garlic, hot pepper and flip okra with a spatula. Cook for 5 minutes or until the bottom layer is also brown and crisp. Continue the process until the okra reaches your desired crispness and color.
