Southern Fried Okra

1 lb. fresh okra

2 eggs

1 1/2 t. salt, divided

oil, for frying

1 1/4 c. cornmeal

1/4 c. flour

1/2 t. pepper

1/4 t. cayenne pepper, optional

Trim the stems andthin tips from okra. Cut okra crosswise into 1/2" pieces. Lightly beat eggs with 1/2 t. salt. Add okra and mix well to coat. Let soak for 10 minutes. Heat 3/4" oil in skillet, until hot. Place cornmeal, flour, remaining salt, pepper, and cayenne in gallon size ziploc bag. Seal bag and toss to combine.Remove okra from egg mixture with slotted spoon to remove as much egg as possible. Add to the ziploc bag. Seal the bag, trapping some air inside, Toss well to coat okra. Add okra to skillet and fry until golden brown all over, 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer okra to paper towel lined plate. Finish with a sprinkle of salt, if desired.

1st pic: cooking in skillet; 2nd pic: drained & ready to eat!