It’s true, okra is technically a fruit and yes, I know there are plenty of people who think okra is weird and slimy, but trust me here — pretty much everything tastes better when roasted, including okra!
I won’t lie, the chopping process can be a tiny bit slimy…
but throw a little olive oil and spices on those okra halves, toss them in the oven and roast for a good 20 to 25 minutes and you have yourself a tasty, healthy side dish sans the slime.
For you southerners, I know this isn’t exactly fried okra, but hear me out — it’s still crispy and it’s way better for you!
The only problem is that the okra does shrink down quite a bit and it’s addictive. I almost ate the whole pan by myself. Lucky for Isaac, I was able to save him a few pieces. Literally it was jut a few. Oops!
Please continue to Next Page (>) for the full list of ingredients and complete cooking instructions.
Ingredients
1 pound okra, rinsed and dried
1/2 Tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons fresh thyme
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
ground pepper, to taste
pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°.
- Trim the okra by cutting away the stem ends and the tips, just the very ends. Then cut the okra in half, lengthwise.
- Place okra in a large bowl. Add oil and spices and stir to coat the okra halves.
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Place okra on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, shaking or stirring the okra at least twice during the roasting time. You’ll know the okra is ready when it’s lightly browned and tender.
- Serve hot — they tend to lose the crispy texture as they cool.