Roasted Okra Recipe
Introduction
Roasted okra is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy this unique vegetable without the usual sliminess. With a smoky and aromatic spice blend, this recipe turns okra into a crispy, tasty side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra (ends and stems removed, sliced into 1″ pieces)
- 2 tablespoons oil of choice (avocado oil recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds (or ¼ teaspoon ground cumin)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425℉. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced okra, oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and salt. Mix well to coat all the okra pieces evenly with the oil and spices.
- Step 3: Spread the okra on the prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer to ensure even roasting.
- Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking occasionally, until the edges are crispy, golden, and the okra is no longer slimy.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven, serve immediately, and enjoy your crispy roasted okra.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toss the okra with a tablespoon of cornmeal before roasting.
- Try using smoked sea salt instead of regular salt to enhance the smoky flavor.
- Swap cumin seeds for ground cumin if you prefer a smoother texture.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the spice mix.
- Use olive oil or sunflower oil as alternatives to avocado oil depending on your taste and availability.
Storage
Store leftover roasted okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread the okra on a baking sheet and warm in a 375℉ oven for 5-7 minutes to help it regain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the okra soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I roast frozen okra using this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh okra for roasting because frozen okra tends to be more watery and may not crisp up well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat dry thoroughly before roasting.
How do I prevent okra from becoming slimy when cooking?
Roasting at a high temperature in a single layer helps evaporate moisture quickly, preventing sliminess. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation around the okra pieces.
Print
Roasted Okra Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Roasted Okra recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy fresh okra with a crispy texture and aromatic spices. Coated in avocado oil and seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, fennel seeds, cumin, and salt, the okra bakes to golden perfection, eliminating any sliminess while delivering a deliciously roasted taste perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Okra and Seasoning
- 1 pound fresh okra, ends and stems removed, sliced into 1” pieces
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds (or ¼ teaspoon ground cumin)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425℉ (220℃). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and set it aside for later use.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced okra with avocado oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and salt. Toss everything until the okra pieces are evenly coated with the oil and spices, ensuring maximum flavor and even cooking.
- Arrange Okra: Spread the seasoned okra out in a single, even layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This helps each piece roast evenly and become crispy on the edges.
- Roast Okra: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the okra for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the okra edges turn crispy and golden brown, with no sliminess remaining, stirring or shaking the pan halfway through if desired for even roasting.
- Serve: Once roasted to crispy perfection, remove from oven and serve immediately. Enjoy as a savory side dish or a healthy snack.
Notes
- Use avocado oil or any high smoke point oil such as olive oil or grapeseed oil for best roasting results.
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow air circulation around each okra piece.
- Adjust spices according to preference; you can add chili powder or cayenne for heat.
- To avoid sliminess, ensure okra is dry before seasoning and roast at high heat.
- The fennel and cumin seeds can be lightly crushed or ground to release more flavor if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: roasted okra, crispy okra, baked okra, vegan side dish, healthy okra recipe, spiced okra, easy vegetable recipes
