When it comes to cooking with frozen okra, many of us are left wondering what to do beyond simply thawing and sautéing. But fear not! With a little creativity and the right techniques, you can transform this humble ingredient into a wide range of crispy, flavorful dishes that will become staples in your kitchen. From Southern-style fried delights to international-inspired stir-fries, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering frozen okra recipes to get you started.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple and satisfying recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s for a quick and delicious meal.
Stay tuned for our full roundup of frozen okra recipes!
Southern fried frozen okra with spicy dipping sauce
Southern Fried Frozen Okra with Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe
Get ready for a crispy and indulgent twist on traditional okra! This recipe transforms frozen okra into a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
4. Dip each frozen okra piece into buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry coated okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve alongside the fried okra for an added kick!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on batch size)
Garlic parmesan roasted frozen okra bites
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that transforms frozen okra into crispy, flavorful bites.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra, thawed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or dried parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the thawed okra to the bowl and toss until well coated with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the okra bites in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or parsley if desired.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air-fried frozen okra with Cajun seasoning
Elevate your frozen okra game with this easy and flavorful recipe that adds a kick of heat from Cajun seasoning. This air-fried method ensures crispy results without deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen okra
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the okra from the freezer and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil and Cajun seasoning.
4. Add the okra to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Cook the okra in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy baked frozen okra casserole
This comforting casserole is a creative way to enjoy frozen okra with a crispy, cheesy twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed okra, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the okra mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the okra.
5. Dot the top with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy frozen okra and tomato curry
A flavorful and spicy curry that combines the unique texture of frozen okra with the sweetness of tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onions and cook until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the frozen okra, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Gradually add the water or broth while stirring constantly, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the okra is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, over rice or with naan bread.
Frozen okra stir-fry with ginger and soy
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries. Frozen okra adds a fun texture, while ginger and soy sauce provide a savory depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the frozen okra and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula as it thaws.
4. Add the garlic and stir-fry for another minute until the okra is tender but still slightly crunchy.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crunchy frozen okra chips with sea salt
Transform okra into a crispy snack perfect for munching on while watching your favorite TV show or as a unique addition to your movie night. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy these addictive and flavorful chips in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Sea salt, for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. Rinse the okra pods and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch and paprika.
4. Toss the okra pods in the cornstarch mixture until they are evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the coated okra pods in a single layer.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Frozen okra and corn fritters
Transforming frozen okra and corn into crispy fritters is a deliciously easy task. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the frozen okra and corn kernels to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour in the beaten egg and mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Smoky grilled frozen okra skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ with these smoky grilled frozen okra skewers, bursting with flavor and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen okra
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread frozen okra onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the okra.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until okra is tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Frozen okra gumbo with shrimp and sausage
This recipe combines the unique flavor of frozen okra with succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen okra
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion, celery, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the frozen okra, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the okra is tender.
6. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon pepper frozen okra sauté
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing twist on traditional okra sauté! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of frozen okra with a tangy lemon pepper flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp white pepper
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add butter and swirl it around to melt.
3. Add frozen okra in an even layer, spreading out any clumps.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, until okra is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Flip okra and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Sprinkle lemon zest, black pepper, and white pepper evenly over the okra.
7. Toss gently to combine, then season with salt if desired.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Frozen okra and potato hash
A hearty and comforting side dish that’s perfect for a chilly morning or as a quick accompaniment to your favorite breakfast or brunch. This recipe uses frozen okra, which is just as nutritious and flavorful as fresh okra, but with the convenience of being readily available all year round.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen okra
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine frozen okra, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the okra is crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked frozen okra with panko crust
Transform frozen okra into a crispy and flavorful side dish by baking it with a crunchy panko crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra, thawed
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder.
3. Toss the thawed okra with a little bit of olive oil to coat evenly.
4. Add the okra to the breadcrumb mixture and toss until the okra is well coated.
5. Spread the coated okra in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen okra and chickpea stew
This simple stew is a perfect solution for a chilly day when you need a comforting, protein-packed meal. With frozen okra and chickpeas as the stars of the show, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the cumin and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the vegetable broth, okra, and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let stew cook for 15-20 minutes or until okra is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy frozen okra po’ boy sandwich
A twist on the classic po’ boy sandwich, this spicy frozen okra version adds a unique and delicious Southern flair. Crispy fried okra meets spicy mayo in a mouthwatering combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen okra
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 po’ boy buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
– Spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip frozen okra in buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture.
4. Fry okra in batches until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading spicy mayo on each bun, followed by fried okra, lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen okra and quinoa salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of frozen okra with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a creamy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups frozen okra
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Thaw the frozen okra by leaving it at room temperature for a few hours or by microwaving it for 30-45 seconds.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and thawed okra.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa-okra mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Frozen okra tempura with wasabi mayo
A crispy and refreshing twist on traditional tempura, this recipe combines the humble okra with a spicy kick from wasabi mayo. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen okra
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup ice-cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Wasabi mayo (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the ice-cold water to form a batter.
3. Dip frozen okra pods into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered okra for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove tempura from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
7. Serve immediately with wasabi mayo for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen okra and black-eyed pea soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day, packed with the nutrients and flavor of okra and black-eyed peas. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious and warming bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen okra
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the frozen okra, vegetable broth, black-eyed peas, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the versatility of frozen okra. From classic Southern-style fried okra to international-inspired dishes like spicy tomato curry, there’s something for every taste and skill level. Try air-frying okra with Cajun seasoning or baking it with a panko crust for a crispy snack. Or, go all out with a cheesy casserole or hearty stew. Whatever your preference, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with frozen okra in the kitchen.
