Ingredients:

  • 1 lb fresh okra, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup low-fat buttermilk
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • avocado oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Wash the okra thoroughly and pat it bone-dry with paper towels to prevent steaming.
  2. Slice the pods into 1/2-inch thick rounds, discarding the stem ends.
  3. Place the sliced okra in a large bowl and toss with buttermilk until every piece is lightly coated.
  4. In a large zip top bag, combine cornmeal, flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and sea salt.
  5. Transfer the wet okra into the bag of dry ingredients. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until the rounds are fully insulated in breading.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Arrange okra in a single layer in the basket.
  7. Spray generously with avocado oil spray until no dry flour is visible. Air fry for 6 minutes.
  8. Open the basket, give it a good shake to flip the pieces, and give it one more quick spritz of oil.
  9. Cook for another 6 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and makes a clinking sound against the basket.