Jazz up the breading mixture with a little Cajun seasoning, if you want spicier fried okra.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh okra pods
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons shortening, part bacon drippings if possible

Preparation:

Wash okra; cut off tips and stem ends. Cut pods into 1/4-inch slices. Sprinkle sliced okra with salt and pepper. Combine cornmeal and flour in a wide, shallow bowl; roll okra in mixture. Sauté okra until golden brown.
Recipe for fried okra serves 6.