Whether you grow it yourself or pick it up at the farmers market, fresh okra is a true Southern summertime staple. Crunchy and full of flavor, okra is as versatile as it is iconic.

From classic gumbos to crunchy snacks and oven-roasted sides, these are some of my favorite okra recipes to help you make the most of your okra harvest and learn to love okra. (And, I promise, it won’t be slimy!)

Southern Favorites Featuring Okra

These tried-and-true dishes let okra shine in its many forms – fried, simmered, roasted, and everything in between.

  • Crispy Fried Okra – Crispy, golden deep-fried bites of Southern comfort. A must-have summer side.
  • Chicken and Sausage Gumbo – A rich, flavorful stew with the holy trinity, okra, and just the right amount of kick.
  • Seafood Gumbo – This Creole gumbo is my mother-in-law’s recipe. It’s loaded with shrimp, crab, and okra and is one of our favorite gumbo recipes.
  • Air Fryer Okra Chips – Crunchy, salty, and great for snacking. Okra fries dipped in a yummy sauce is the perfect summer side dish.
  • Roasted Okra in the Oven – A no-fuss, sheet pan side dish. Baked crunchy okra is the perfect southern side dish!
  • Stewed Okra and Tomatoes – This is one of my favorite ways to cook okra. You can use fresh or frozen okra and fresh or canned tomatoes. It’s the perfect summer recipe, and it’s so easy to make!

 Ways to Use Okra

  • Toss fresh or frozen okra into stews and soups.
  • Roast okra with garlic and olive oil for an easy side dish.
  • Add okra whole to veggie skewers on the grill.
  • Use frozen okra in winter gumbos or stir-fries.

Preserving Okra

  • How to Clean and Freeze Fresh Okra – Preserve your harvest for use all year.
  • Pickled Okra – Pickle okra for a delicious snack or side dish.

Growing Okra in the Garden

  • How to Save Okra Seeds – A quick guide to seed saving for next season.

Newest Okra Recipes