Crispy Air Fryer Okra: A Flavorful, Guilt-Free Snack

Crispy Air Fryer Okra is a delicious and healthy alternative to fried okra, giving you the same satisfying crunch without the excess oil. Seasoned with a blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, this dish delivers bold flavors and a crispy texture that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. The air fryer method keeps it light while still achieving a golden, crunchy finish.

Quick Benefits

This recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for weeknight meals or snack time. Using the air fryer means you get all the crispiness without deep frying, keeping the dish lighter and healthier. Plus, okra is a great source of fiber and antioxidants!

Essential Ingredients

• 1 pound okra, washed, dried, and cut in half lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 2-3 tablespoons arrowroot powder (or substitute with tapioca starch or cornstarch)

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Okra: Place washed, dried, and halved okra in a large mixing bowl.
2. Season: Drizzle the avocado oil over the okra and toss to coat evenly.
3. Add Spices: Add salt, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and arrowroot powder. Mix well to ensure the okra is thoroughly coated with spices.
4. Air Fry: Arrange the seasoned okra in a single layer on the trays or in the basket of an air fryer.
5. Cook: Air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes, rotating the trays or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve: Once the okra is crispy and golden brown around the edges, remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Health Benefits

Okra is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Air frying instead of deep frying significantly reduces calories and fat content while maintaining the crispy texture. Avocado oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, making this dish both tasty and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Air Fryer Okra makes a fantastic side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or as a snack on its own. Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or yogurt-cilantro dip for an extra burst of flavor.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the spice mix.
• Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast after cooking.
• Lemon Zest: Add a hint of lemon zest to the seasoning for a fresh, tangy flavor.
• Herb Upgrade: Mix in dried thyme or oregano for a more aromatic twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftover okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375°F to restore crispiness.

Pro Tips

• Make sure the okra is completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
• Shake the basket or rotate trays halfway through cooking for even browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen okra? Fresh okra works best, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.

What other oils can I use? You can use olive oil or canola oil instead of avocado oil, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point and neutral flavor.

How do I keep the okra from getting slimy? Thoroughly drying the okra before seasoning and cooking helps reduce sliminess.

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