Fish, Fries & Okra is a mouthwatering and classic Southern dish that combines the crispy goodness of fried fish and fries with the unique flavor of okra. This delightful meal has its roots in the American South, where fresh catch from local waters and garden-fresh okra have long been cherished ingredients. With a perfect balance of textures and tastes, Fish, Fries & Okra is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

To prepare this delectable Southern classic, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or catfish)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 lb (450g) fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 lb (450g) potatoes, cut into fries
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:
   • Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
   • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Dredge the fish fillets in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Fry the Fish:
   • In a large skillet, heat about half an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated fish fillets in the skillet and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove the fried fish from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Prepare the Okra:
   • In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal and breadcrumbs.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
   • Dip the sliced okra in the buttermilk and egg mixture, and then coat them with the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture.
4. Fry the Okra:
   • In the same skillet used for frying the fish, add more vegetable oil if needed to reach about half an inch in depth.
   • Once the oil is hot, add the coated okra slices to the skillet and fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy.
   • Transfer the fried okra to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Fries:
   • While the fish and okra are frying, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • On a baking sheet, spread the potato fries in a single layer.
   • Drizzle some vegetable oil over the fries and season with salt and pepper.
   • Bake the fries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are crispy and golden.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Arrange the fried fish, fried okra, and crispy fries on a serving platter.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a touch of citrusy flavor.

Enjoy the Southern Delights!

Your Fish, Fries & Okra is now ready to be enjoyed! The crispy and succulent fish pairs perfectly with the crunchy okra and delightful potato fries. This classic Southern meal is sure to transport you to the heart of the South with every delicious bite.

Fish, Fries & Okra is a classic Southern dish that celebrates the rich flavors and culinary traditions of the American South. The combination of crispy fried fish, crunchy okra, and golden potato fries creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or planning a Southern-inspired feast, Fish, Fries & Okra is a delicious choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

   Absolutely! While cod, tilapia, and catfish are popular choices, you can use any white fish that you prefer or is available in your area.

2. Is there a substitute for buttermilk in the okra coating?

   If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk or even a mixture of milk and yogurt as a substitute.

3. Can I deep-fry the fish and okra instead of pan-frying?

   Yes, you can deep-fry the fish and okra if you prefer. Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) and adjust the frying time accordingly.

4. How can I make the fries extra crispy?

   To achieve extra crispy fries, soak the potato slices in cold water for about 30 minutes before baking them in the oven.

5. What dipping sauces go well with this meal?

   Fish, Fries & Okra pairs well with various dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or a classic ketchup-mayo blend. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination.