This simple, six-ingredient fried okra recipe takes just half an hour to prepare.

Simply heat oil in a skillet and add the okra, stirring to coat.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper and, as the okra fries, sprinkle it with cornmeal.

pan fried okra with cornmeal in a skillet with wooden spoon

Credit:Alison Miksch; Prop Stylist: Kay Clark; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

It’s a no-nonsense process fitting for this simple dish.

It might become your go-to recipe.

Reheat in a 350F oven or air fryer until crisp and hot throughout.

What To Serve with Pan-Fried Okra

Pan-fried okra is an all-time favorite side dish.

Divide okra between skillets, and stir to coat.

Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until bright green, about 10 minutes.

Sprinkle okra in each skillet with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Divide yellow cornmeal and cayenne pepper evenly between skillets; stir to coat.

Just be sure to thaw and drain thoroughly to eliminate excess moisture which could make the mixture mushy.

Looking to get more use out of that air fryer?

Check out ourair fryer okra recipefor a dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes.