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

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ 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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Okra:

   Rinse and dry the okra. Using a sharp knife, cut a slit lengthwise down each pod (don’t cut all the way through). Gently remove a few seeds to make room for the cheese.

2. Stuff with Cheese:

   Insert a strip of pepper jack cheese into each pod. Gently press the okra closed. Use a toothpick to secure if needed.

3. Soak in Buttermilk:

   Place the stuffed okra in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let soak while you prepare the breading.

4. Make the Breading:

   In a separate bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Coat the Okra:

   Lift each pod from the buttermilk (letting the excess drip off) and dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.

6. Fry Until Golden:

   Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffed okra in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

7. Drain and Serve:

Place the fried okra on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of lime, if you like.

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes