CRISPY OKRA SALAD

Crispy Okra Salad image

Provided by Suvir Saran

Yield Makes 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 medium or 2 small tomatoes, quartered, seeded, and roughly diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
About 8 cups canola oil for frying
1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and cut lengthwise into thin strips
4 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons chaat masala*
*Chaat masala is a blend of spices used most often in Indian street food. It is available at Indian markets or online at kalustyans.com.

Steps:

In small mixing bowl, stir together onion, tomato, and cilantro. Refrigerate until ready to use.
In wide, 4-inch-deep heavy pot over moderate heat, heat 1 1/2 to 2 inches oil until deep-fat thermometer registers 350°F. Fry okra in batches (returning oil to 350°F between batches) until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer fried okra to paper towels to drain.
In large mixing bowl, combine okra, onion-tomato mixture, lemon juice, salt, and chaat masala. Toss gently and serve immediately.