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How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Okra

Okra, a vibrant green vegetable known for its unique texture and taste, has been a staple in various cuisines around the world. Despite its somewhat polarising reputation due to its mucilaginous quality when cooked improperly, frying okra can transform it into a delightfully crispy snack or side dish. Thanks to the advent of the air fryer, making crispy okra has never been easier or healthier. This article will guide you through the process of preparing and cooking crispy air fryer okra in a few simple steps.

Ingredients

To make your crispy air fryer okra, you will need the following ingredients:

• 300g fresh okra (washed and dried thoroughly)
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if required)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika, if preferred)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Okra

Begin by washing the okra under cold running water. Pat it dry with a clean towel to eliminate excess moisture; this is crucial as moisture can prevent the okra from becoming crispy. Trim the stem ends, and if desired, cut the okra into bite-sized pieces. Keeping them whole is also perfectly fine—just ensure they are not too large, as this may affect cooking time.

Step 2: Create the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give the okra its flavourful and crispy crust. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences; for a spicier version, consider adding cayenne pepper or chilli powder.

Step 3: Coat the Okra

Add the dried okra to the bowl with the coating mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the okra and toss everything together until the okra pieces are well-coated. The oil will help the coating adhere and promote crispness when cooked.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Before you begin cooking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Preheating ensures that the okra cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

Step 5: Air Fry the Okra

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the coated okra into the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking. Air fry the okra for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overcooking, as air fryers can vary in performance.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the okra is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and allow it to cool slightly. Serve it warm as a snack or as a side dish to complement your main meals. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or serving it with a dipping sauce like ranch or aioli can enhance the flavour even more.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Okra

1. Select Fresh Okra: Choose firm, bright green okra without blemishes. Fresh okra has a better texture and flavour.

2. Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there is enough space for the air to circulate around the okra for optimal crispiness.

3. Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to tailor the flavour profile to suit your palate.

4. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

In conclusion, making crispy air fryer okra is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. This nutritious vegetable can easily become a favourite addition to your meals or a tasty snack. Enjoy the process and the delightful outcome of this easy air fryer recipe!