Fried Okra

Okra never used to sound appealing to me, but then I was at Cracker Barrel and had some, and ever since I have loved it! Here is the way I make it. It comes so close to Cracker Barrel's that you might not even notice the difference...

1/2 lb. okra
1 cup cornmeal
1 Tbsp. salt
1 cup cultured buttermilk

flour
vegetable oil

Choose okra that is an even green color and not too long. Trim stem ends from okra and cut into 3/4" lengths. Toss okra in flour to cover lightly. Soak in buttermilk for 15 minutes. Mix cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a plastic bag. Add okra and toss to coat.
Heat 1/2-inch of oil in a 10" skillet (cast iron is traditional) over medium high heat.When oil begins to simmer, add okra to skillet. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown. (Stir gently to avoid losing coating.) Drain on paper towels and salt again if needed. Enjoy!

Linking to this party: This Chick Cooks