Yummy Fried Okra from Cakes and Ale Restaurant

Southern fried okra with great homemade ranch. If you are in a pinch, any ranch dressing will do.

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 8  ounces okra (cut in half lengthwise)
• 3  cups  vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1  cup cornmeal (medium-grind)
• 1⁄2 cup flour (all purpose)
• 1  teaspoon salt (kosher)
• 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise
• 1⁄4 cup creme fraiche
• 2  tablespoons buttermilk
• 1  garlic clove (pounded into paste)
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. To prepare the dressing: in a bowl, combine the mayo, creme fraiche, buttermilk and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add additional buttermilk to thin.
2. To prepare okra: in a large bowl, soak the cut okra in cold water for 5 minutes. Drain.
3. Pour 4-6 inches of oil in a tall saucepan or deep fryer and heat to 375 degrees. It is important to use a large enough pot so that the oil fills it only halfway.
4. In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour and salt. Add the okra and toss to coat. Fry the okra in the hot oil until golden. Drain well. Serve the okra with the ranch dressing.