Southern Fried Okra

Okra is a staple in the South. I'm a big fan of eating fresh okra raw with just a sprinkle of salt (if you've never tried it, prepare to be amazed), but okra recipes come in many methods: grilled, pickled, stirred into a pot of gumbo, or fried! You can air fry okra or make it the old-fashioned way like with this classic recipe. Either way, this Southern comfort food will come out golden, crispy, and totally addictive!

• 1 lb. fresh okra pods
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for serving
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 1/4 c. yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)