Wet Fried Okra

Steps

1. 1Cut the okra into 1/4-inch pieces and place into a colander. Rinse under cold water and allow to drain only slightly.
2. 2Place the cornmeal into a sealable ziptop bag. Add the okra and shake to coat thoroughly.
3. 3Add enough vegetable oil to a cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet in order to completely cover the bottom of the pan. Place over medium heat and heat until the oil reaches 370ºF on a candy/fry thermometer. Add the okra all at once and fry until golden brown on 1 side, 6 to 7 minutes. Do not disturb until the bottom is golden brown. Turn the okra with a spatula and do not disturb until the majority of the other side is golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Now, stir occasionally until all of the okra is golden on all sides, another 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the okra from the pan with a slotted spoon or spatula to a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined half-sheet pan. Season, to taste, with salt and allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before serving.