Name: Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
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

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Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra is a Southern-inspired appetizer that combines the crisp texture of fried okra with the creamy, spicy kick of pepper jack cheese. This dish is perfect for those who crave a savory, crunchy snack or want to impress guests at their next gathering. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavor and texture. The heat from the pepper jack cheese pairs perfectly with the crispy cornmeal crust, while the creamy cheese filling provides a delightful surprise with each bite. It’s an easy, yet crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for sharing. Plus, with a squeeze of fresh lime and your choice of dipping sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Okra:
Rinse and dry the okra pods. Use a sharp knife to make a slit lengthwise down each pod, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently remove a few seeds to make room for the cheese.
Stuff with Cheese:
Insert a strip of pepper jack cheese into each okra pod. Gently press the pod closed and use a toothpick to secure if necessary.
Soak in Buttermilk:
Place the stuffed okra in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let them soak while you prepare the breading mixture.
Make the Breading:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Okra:
Lift each okra pod from the buttermilk (allowing excess to drip off) and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks evenly.
Fry Until Golden:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffed okra in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to ensure they fry evenly.
Drain and Serve:
Once fried, place the okra on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a milder cheese, you can swap out the pepper jack for mozzarella or cheddar. For more spice, try using jalapeño cheddar or spicy queso fresco.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a great choice for those following a plant-based diet.

Storage/Reheating

While fried okra is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the okra in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispiness. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, flipping occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh okra for the best texture and flavor, but frozen okra can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.

2. Can I prepare the okra ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the okra by stuffing it and soaking it in buttermilk in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before breading and frying.

3. How do I keep the breading from falling off during frying?

Make sure to press the cornmeal mixture gently onto the okra and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the breading to loosen. Let the excess buttermilk drip off before coating.

4. Can I air fry this recipe instead of deep frying?

Yes, you can air fry the stuffed okra at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add extra chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese filling for more heat. You can also use a spicier seasoning mix in the breading.

6. What’s the best dipping sauce for this fried okra?

Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or spicy aioli are all great dipping options. You can also squeeze fresh lime over the okra to brighten the flavors.

7. Can I make the breading ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the cornmeal and flour with the spices in advance and store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, just dip the okra in buttermilk and coat with the prepared breading.

8. How do I prevent the okra from becoming too greasy?

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the okra will absorb more oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

9. Can I use other vegetables instead of okra?

Yes, you can use other vegetables like zucchini or jalapeños. Just make sure they are cut to the right size for stuffing and frying.

10. How do I keep the okra crispy after frying?

Serve the fried okra immediately for the best crispiness. If you need to store it for a short period, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

Pepper Jack Cheese Stuffed Fried Okra is the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy goodness. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a fun snack, this dish is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying treat that everyone will love. Enjoy it hot and fresh with a zesty dipping sauce and a squeeze of lime for the ultimate flavor experience!