Crispy Okra Salad

ingredients

• 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 2 quarts 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.

directions

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 2 inches oil until deep-fat thermometer registers 350 degrees. Fry okra in batches (returning oil to 350 degrees between batches) until golden brown, about 6 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.