Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra
Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra combines the rich creaminess of melted pepper jack cheese with the crispy crunch of perfectly fried okra, making it an irresistible appetizer or side dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
20 large fresh okra pods
4 oz pepper jack cheese, sliced into thin strips
1 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tsp vinegar)
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional for serving: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or spicy aioli
Fresh lime wedges
Instructions
- Rinse and dry the okra. Cut a slit lengthwise down each pod without cutting all the way through. Remove a few seeds to make room for the cheese.
- Insert a strip of pepper jack cheese into each pod and gently press the okra closed. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.
- Place the stuffed okra in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let soak while you prepare the breading.
- In a separate bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Lift each pod from the buttermilk (letting the excess drip off) and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffed okra in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Place the fried okra on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of lime, if you like.
Notes
- If you prefer a healthier version, consider baking the stuffed okra instead of frying.
- To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of breading into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for the stuffing.
- For extra spice, add finely chopped jalapeño or hot sauce to the cheese stuffing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 5 pieces)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
