Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra
Ingredients:
• 20 large fresh okra pods
• 4 oz pepper jack cheese, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tsp vinegar)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional for serving:
Ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy aioli
Fresh lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Okra:
Rinse and dry the okra. Using a sharp knife, cut a slit lengthwise down each pod (don’t cut all the way through). Gently remove a few seeds to make room for the cheese.
2. Stuff with Cheese:
Insert a strip of pepper jack cheese into each pod. Gently press the okra closed. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.
3. Soak in Buttermilk:
Place the stuffed okra in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let soak while you prepare the breading.
4. Make the Breading:
In a separate bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Coat the Okra:
Lift each pod from the buttermilk (letting the excess drip off) and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
6. Fry Until Golden:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffed okra in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
7. Drain and Serve:
Place the fried okra on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of lime, if you like.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
