Crispy fried okra is a quintessential Southern staple that will turn those who think they don't like okra into converts. This Keto Fried Okra has all the crispy goodness and flavors of the original without the added carbs.
If you have had okra before, chances are you either love it or hate it. Once firmly in the okra-hating camp, these days, I couldn't love it more.
It is recipes like this keto fried okra that turned me into a convert!
These crispy little bites are a fabulous side dish that I could never get tired of. I like to serve it with a side of Ranch Dressing, which isn't traditional. But I love it all the same.
Though this recipe is best fresh, I have been known to throw leftovers on a salad with ranch dressing for a little "crouton" action.
Can I Use Frozen Okra?
I prefer fresh okra because it is both crispy and tender. Frozen okra does work here in a pinch, however. (And it is super-convenient since it comes already sliced.)
Tips & Tricks
- If your okra feels a bit slimy, let it soak in a bowl with a tablespoon of lemon juice for about 15 minutes. Rinse and dry thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe as directed.
- I recommend cutting the okra into pieces that are about ½-inch. Try to keep them as close to the same size as possible for even cooking, but don't sweat it if some are a little off.
Step by Step
Air Fryer Keto Fried Okra
My favorite way to make this recipe is in the air fryer because it takes the work of babysitting oil out of the picture. (Plus it is less expensive since I don't have to worry about the cost of oil.)
There are a couple of things to remember with air frying. First, make sure you coat the breaded okra with oil - this will help it crisp up.
Next, make sure you don't overcrowd the okra - cook in batches if you have to.
Finally, every air fryer is a bit different. I have two, and they don't cook the same. So make sure you adjust the cooking times as needed.
Buying & Storing Okra
Once only in the South, you can now find okra in most parts of the country. Its best seasons are summer and fall.
Look for okra pods that are a maximum of 3-inches in length. Any longer than that and you are in for slimy okra.
Serving Suggestions
- I love this as a side for Keto Salisbury Steak! Don't forget the Mashed Cauliflower.
- This recipe pairs well with simply paired chicken as the main course. This Keto Chicken Marinade takes flavors to the next level.
Make sure you check out the rest of my Keto Side Dish Recipes!
Keto Fried Okra
Equipment
- Deep Pot to Fry In
Ingredients
- 8 ounces okra sliced into ½” pieces
- 2 eggs beaten
- ½ cup finely ground almond flour
- 1 cup finely ground parmesan cheese
- ½ tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning sugar-free
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Avocado oil if frying
Instructions
- Beat the eggs in a shallow dish. In a separate dish, combine the almond flour, parmesan cheese, baking powder, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the okra slices in the eggs and then coat them in the almond flour mixture. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and continue with the remaining okra.
Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400° F. Spray the bottom of the air fryer well with oil. Arrange the okra in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Spray the okra with oil. Cook for 5 minutes, flip and cook for 5 to 8 minutes longer until golden brown.
Frying
- Heat at least 2” inches of oil in a heavy pan over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a drop of almond flour begins to sizzle. Fry the okra until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towel.
Notes
- If your okra feels a bit slimy, let it soak in a bowl with a tablespoon of lemon juice for about 15 minutes. Rinse and dry thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe as directed.
- I recommend cutting the okra into pieces that are about ½-inch. Try to keep them as close to the same size as possible for even cooking, but don't sweat it if some are a little off.
Colleen Greene says
I made this last night with dinner, and it turned out great. My grocery store did not have fresh okra, so I had to use frozen. I let it thaw completely before dipping and coating, and it turned out well. This coating stuck better than some of the other recipes I have tried for things like air fried zucchini, cauliflower, and pickles, so I will try this coating with those now too. We will definitely make this again.
Wendy Polisi says
I am so glad that you enjoyed it! And very glad that the frozen okra worked for you.
Karen K says
How would you do it in the oven? I don't have an air fryer and would prefer not to oil fry...
M..Morrison says
Thank you for the recipe. I was thinking about how to do keto okra. The cajun spice is a nice twist. I like using blue cheese as well to spice different meals up. Great recipe!
Nancy Worley says
I love fried okra and have missed it since starting keto. I made this recipe today and I am amazed at how good it is!! The only thing I did different was I used seasoned salt instead of Cajun seasoning since I don't like too much spice. I will definitely be making this recipe over and over again! Thank you!
Wendy Polisi says
YAY! I am so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for taking the time to let me know.
Lanetta says
How much is considered a serving? 1/3 cup,2/3cup,1/2cup…..
Hope says
Made this with fresh okra! This is a 20 star recipe!!!! Better than non keto. Best batter ever , gonna try it with zucchini. Thanks.
Sherri says
THE BESTfried okra EVER! I USED FROZEN, didn't thaw it. Had to use just egg whites because I was out of eggs, but oh my goodness, we all LOVED IT! We fried it in the avacado oil as suggested.
Wendy Polisi says
So glad that you all enjoyed it!