Step 1

Rinse okra and slice into half-inch rounds. Discard caps and bottom tips.

Step 2

Place okra slices in a mixing bowl and sprinkle them with flour. Shake vigorously to ensure even coating. Strain in a wire strainer to get rid of excess flour and get a very light coating.

Step 3

Transfer back into the mixing bowl. Stir in the egg until okra slices are well-coated.

Step 4

Place cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a ziplock bag. Shake to mix.

Step 5

Add 1 cup of okra to the bag, seal, and shake until evenly coated. Transfer them into a plate. Repeat this step for the rest of the okra slices.

Step 6

In a heavy bottom pan or cast-iron skillet, pour half-inch deep of lard or oil and heat over medium-high heat until the temperature is 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7

Fry okra slices, making sure the pan is not over-crowded until golden brown. Drain excess oil by placing okra on a wire rack lined with paper towels.