When it comes to cooking with frozen okra, many of us may think that we’re limited to a few simple recipes. However, this versatile ingredient can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from crispy snacks to hearty meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the best of frozen okra.
From classic Southern-style fried okra to international-inspired stir-fries and curries, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen with your next frozen okra purchase. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, we’ve got you covered.
Southern Fried Frozen Okra
This recipe brings a classic Southern comfort food into the frozen realm, giving you a crispy and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Remove okra from the freezer and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Dredge okra pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Dip floured okra in buttermilk, then roll in a plate of breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Carefully place coated okra pieces in hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Roasted Frozen Okra
Add a spicy kick to your okra with this easy and flavorful roasted recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen okra, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss okra with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the okra mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until okra is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Frozen Okra Fries
A twist on traditional fries, these crispy and flavorful okra fries are perfect for a snack or side dish. With the added punch of garlic and parmesan cheese, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen okra fries
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen okra fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the fries.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Frozen Okra Chips
Transform frozen okra into a delicious and crispy snack with just a few simple steps. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their snacking routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: any additional seasonings you prefer (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the frozen okra chips in a single layer on the air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the okra chips and sprinkle with salt and any additional seasonings you like.
4. Cook the okra chips for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Check the chips for crispiness and cook for an additional minute if needed.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Frozen Okra and Tomato Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional okra dishes. The frozen okra makes it easy to add this nutritious vegetable to your meal year-round.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the thawed okra and stir to combine.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the curry for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Baked Frozen Okra
Transform frozen okra into a creamy, cheesy delight with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra, thawed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together okra, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Frozen Okra Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe showcases the unique texture of frozen okra, which holds up beautifully to the savory flavors of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Add the frozen okra and stir-fry until it starts to thaw and break apart, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and grated ginger; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the okra is coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Frozen Okra and Corn Fritters
A delicious twist on traditional fritters, these bite-sized treats combine the sweet flavor of corn with the earthy taste of okra. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine okra, corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the okra-corn mixture into the oil, leaving space between each fritter.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen Okra Gumbo with Shrimp
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana in this hearty and comforting gumbo recipe, featuring tender shrimp and crispy okra.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen okra, thawed
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add okra; cook for 5 minutes or until browned.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in tomatoes, fish stock, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer; cook for 10-12 minutes or until okra is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Frozen Okra Pickle Spears
Transform frozen okra into a tangy and crunchy snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, honey, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add the frozen okra to the marinade and toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
5. Spread the okra mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in single layers.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Okra and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of potatoes with the tender crunch of okra.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen okra, thawed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and thawed okra.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
6. If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frozen Okra Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen okra, thawed
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the thawed okra and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning cooked okra onto tortillas, topping with lime crema, cilantro, and queso fresco.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Frozen Okra and Chickpea Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the tender texture of frozen okra with the nutty flavor of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the frozen okra, chickpeas, red bell pepper, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Okra Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Discover the unique combination of crispy okra tempura and tangy dipping sauce, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water to form a thick batter.
3. Dip each frozen okra piece into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry battered okra for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
1. Mix together:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
2. Serve tempura okra with dipping sauce for a flavorful treat!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including preparation and frying time)
Frozen Okra and Bacon Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the tender goodness of okra with the smoky delight of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bacon pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the thawed okra to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Frozen Okra Soup with Coconut Milk
A creamy and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Frozen Okra Soup with Coconut Milk is a unique twist on traditional okra recipes. The frozen okra adds a delightful texture to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the frozen okra and cook until thawed and tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the soup for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Okra and Quinoa Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional okra dishes, this frozen okra and quinoa salad is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, frozen okra, red bell pepper, and parsley.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Frozen Okra Po’ Boy Sandwich
A twist on the classic Po’ Boy sandwich, this recipe combines crispy fried okra with spicy remoulade sauce and crunchy lettuce on a toasted baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 baguettes, toasted
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Thaw frozen okra and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip okra in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry okra in hot oil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on toasted baguette, topping with fried okra, and finishing with lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Frozen Okra and Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty dish combines the creamy goodness of okra with the spicy kick of sausage, all wrapped up in a flavorful jambalaya.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the okra, rice, chicken broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the okra is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Okra Stuffed Peppers
A creative twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe adds a deliciously unique touch with frozen okra. The okra’s slightly crunchy texture and subtle flavor complement the sweetness of the bell peppers perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, okra, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the okra mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 crispy frozen okra recipes! From Southern Fried Frozen Okra to Garlic Parmesan Frozen Okra Fries, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore a variety of flavors and textures in dishes like Spicy Roasted Frozen Okra, Cheesy Baked Frozen Okra, and even Frozen Okra Tacos with Lime Crema. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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