fried Okra, Southern-Style Recipe

Directions:

1. Top the chili pepper and score it down the middle. We use red Thai chilis.
2. Peel and smash the clove of garlic, leaving it mostly intact. Set aside with the chili pepper.
3. Wash and thoroughly dry the okra. Cut off and discard ends. Slice into 1/8 slices on the diagonal.
4. Heat a non-stick frying pan/skillet over medium heat. When hot, add 1 tbsp of the oil, the chili pepper, and the garlic. Stir-fry for one minute, then discard the chili pepper and garlic.
5. Add the sliced okra to the pan, stirring frequently. Stir-fry for five minutes.
6. Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil and sprinkle with sea salt and a couple of grinds of black pepper, to taste. Continue to stir-fry the okra for another 5-10 minutes, depending on how soft or crunchy you want your okra- the longer you fry it, the softer it will get. I prefer mine softer. Your okra should be browned somewhat to get the authentic Southern flavor of fried okra.
7. Remove to a warm plate and serve immediately.