Roasted Okra

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Crispy Roasted Okra is a divine snacking recipe that is easy to make as well as suitable for Gluten-Free, Vegan, Paleo, Keto, and Whole 30 diets. 

closeup overhead shot of roasted okra in a glass jar

Crispy Roasted Okra is a quick and easy delight that’s both diet-friendly and bursting with flavor. Tender okra pods are perfectly seasoned and oven roasted to a satisfying crunch, with just the right hint of heat from chili flakes. Roasting okra is a unique side dish that’s a breeze to make and perfect for BBQs, picnics, summer parties, and beyond.

Oven Roasted Okra is a special dish. Before you start thinking ‘I don’t like okra, okra is slimy’… not with this dish. As you pop these delectable bites into your mouth, you’ll savor the combination of textures and flavors that make this appetizer one of my favorites. It was one we enjoyed regularly when I was growing up in Sierra Leone.

And let’s not forget the star of the show – a garlic chili mayonnaise dipping sauce that takes the okra to a whole new level. So, if you’re looking to impress at your next gathering without breaking a sweat, this recipe is your secret weapon.

pile of roasted okra pieces with sea salt on top
roasted okra in a glass jar next to two pieces of roasted okra on a counter

Why Make This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and a short baking time, this recipe is a time-saving solution for those who crave a delicious snack without the fuss.
  • Diet-Friendly – Catering to various dietary preferences, this roasted okra is a healthy option, allowing you to indulge guilt-free while enjoying a satisfying crunch. It’s a healthier alternative to fried okra.
  • Unique Side Dish – Break away from the ordinary and impress your guests with a side dish that stands out. The crispy texture and distinctive flavors make it a memorable addition to any meal.
  • Perfect for BBQs – Elevate your barbecue game with a side dish that complements grilled favorites. The okra’s robust flavor profile adds a delightful contrast to smoky, grilled meats.

Ingredient Notes

  • Okra – Okra is a green, pod-like vegetable with a mild, slightly sweet taste and a unique texture when cooked. Look for whole okra pods, not sliced okra.
  • Vegetable Oil – Use your favorite light, neutral-flavored oil.
  • Salt – Salt enhances the natural flavors of the okra.
  • Chilli Flakes – Adding a touch of heat, chili flakes provide a subtle spice to the roasted okra that doesn’t overpower.
  • Garlic Mayonnaise – Garlic mayonnaise brings richness and a garlicky undertone to the dipping sauce. You can use regular mayonnaise and add garlic powder for flavor. Use vegan mayonnaise if needed.
  • Sweet Chilli Sauce – Sweet chili sauce introduces a sweet and tangy element to the dipping sauce.

Handy Tip: Use Good Kitchen Tools!

For the best tools to help make your recipe even easier and more successful, check out my collection of the Best Kitchen Tools on Amazon.

How to Make Roasted Okra

  1. Preheat oven to fan 180 degrees C / 200 degrees C / 400 degrees F / gas 6.
  2. Mix all the ingredients together making sure the okra is well coated.
  3. Add the okra to a baking tray making sure the pieces are not touching each other.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes turning halfway through cooking.
  5. While the okra is baking, mix together the ingredients for the dipping sauce till well combined and set aside.
  6. Remove the okra from the oven when crunchy, lightly browned and tender. Serve warm or cold with the dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

  • To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure each okra piece is well-coated with the vegetable oil. Even coating promotes even browning during roasting.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller quantity and add more later if desired.
  • Preheat the oven as directed in the recipe. A hot oven ensures that the okra starts cooking immediately, contributing to its crispy texture.
  • To prevent the okra pieces from steaming rather than roasting, ensure they are spaced out on the baking tray, with some breathing room. This allows the heat to circulate and crisp up each piece.
  • Flip the okra pieces once during the baking process. This helps achieve an even crispiness on all sides, ensuring a delightful texture throughout.
  • Keep a close eye on the okra as it bakes to avoid overcooking or burning. The goal is a crunchy texture, so remove them from the oven when they reach the desired level of crispiness.
  • While the okra is baking, take the opportunity to prepare the garlic chili mayonnaise dipping sauce. You can also prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Delicious Variations

  • Parmesan and Herb – Enhance the savory profile by adding grated Parmesan cheese and a mix of dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and rosemary) to the okra before roasting. The cheese creates a golden crust, while the herbs infuse a delightful aroma.
  • Lemon Zest and Black Pepper – The citrusy notes from the lemon zest provide a zingy contrast, and the black pepper adds a hint of warmth to the okra.
  • Sesame Soy Glaze – Create an Asian-inspired version by tossing the roasted okra in a glaze made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey. The result is a glossy finish with a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors.
  • Cajun Spice Blend – Infuse some bold, spicy flavors by coating the okra with a Cajun spice blend before roasting. This adds a kick of heat and a medley of aromatic spices, transforming the dish into a Cajun-inspired delight.

Prep and Storage

  • Prep – Wash and dry the okra.
  • Store – Although best eaten right away, store any leftover roasted okra in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
  • Freeze – Freezing is possible but you will loose the crispy texture.
  • Reheat – To reheat, place the okra on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

How do you keep the roasted okra from getting slimy?

No need to worry about the slime that okra is so famous for. You eliminate this by not cutting into the bit with the seeds. Just a quick trim on the stalk ends of the okra then pop into the oven to roast.
Then you grab the crunchy crispy roasted okra straight out of the oven, dip it into some delicious sauce and just well  – enjoy.

What are the benefits of eating roasted okra?

Crispy Roasted Okra is naturally Gluten-free, Vegan, Keto friendly, Paleo friendly and Whole 30 friendly. A serving of okra contains only 9g net carbs. Besides being good for these diets, okra is also loaded with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium.

Can I make this with frozen okra?

While fresh okra is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen okra in a pinch. However, be aware that frozen okra might release more moisture during cooking, potentially affecting the crispiness.

Can I make this in the air fryer?

Yes, an air fryer can be a great alternative. Follow the same seasoning and coating steps, then air fry the okra at a high temperature until they reach the desired crispiness, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking.

pile of roasted okra with seasoning on top on counter

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Recommended Tools

  • A set of mixing bowl.
  • A large baking sheet.
  • For the best tools to help make your recipe even easier and more successful, check out my collection of the Best Kitchen Tools on Amazon.)

Weight Watchers Points

There are XX Blue Plan SmartPoints in one serving of this.

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closeup overhead shot of roasted okra in a glass jar
Print Recipe
5 from 9 votes

Crispy Roasted Okra

Crispy baked okra is a simple and unique snack or salad at your summer bbqs.
Prep Time2 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: African, American, Indian, Vegan
Servings: 5
Calories: 118kcal
Author: Bintu Hardy

Ingredients

Crispy okra:

  • 1 pound (450g) trimmed okra
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt
  • Chilli flakes

Garlic chilli mayonnaise dipping sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons garlic mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to fan 180 degrees C / 200 degrees C / 400 degrees F / gas 6.
  • Mix all the ingredients together making sure the okra is well coated.
  • Add the okra to a baking tray making sure the pieces are not touching each other.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes (turn them once during baking).
  • Whilst the okra is baking mix together the ingredients for the dipping sauce till well combined and set aside.
  • Remove the okra from the oven when crunchy and serve warm or cold with the dipping sauce.
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Notes

  • To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure each okra piece is well-coated with the vegetable oil. Even coating promotes even browning during roasting.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller quantity and add more later if desired.
  • Preheat the oven as directed in the recipe. A hot oven ensures that the okra starts cooking immediately, contributing to its crispy texture.
  • To prevent the okra pieces from steaming rather than roasting, ensure they are spaced out on the baking tray, with some breathing room. This allows the heat to circulate and crisp up each piece.
  • Flip the okra pieces once during the baking process. This helps achieve an even crispiness on all sides, ensuring a delightful texture throughout.
  • Keep a close eye on the okra as it bakes to avoid overcooking or burning. The goal is a crunchy texture, so remove them from the oven when they reach the desired level of crispiness.
  • While the okra is baking, take the opportunity to prepare the garlic chili mayonnaise dipping sauce. You can also prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Nutrition

Calories: 118kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 170mg | Potassium: 269mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 645IU | Vitamin C: 20.7mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 0.6mg

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52 Comments

  1. I love okra and cook it every week in Indian curries and stir fries. I do bake them once in a while but haven’t managed to get really crispy Ines. Will bookmark your recipe as a reference when I make baked crispy okra next time

  2. 5 stars
    Such a nice idea. I love the garlic chili mayonnaise to dip the roasted okra.

  3. 5 stars
    Can’t wait to try this! Bought some fresh okra the other day & was trying to figure out how to cook it a different way. A BIG thanks!