Virginia Grilled Okra Skewers on the Arteflame

Introduction

There's something truly special about grilled vegetables, and in the South, fresh okra is a favorite. This Grilled Southern Okra Skewer recipe highlights everything that's wonderful about fire-roasted veggies. We’re taking tender Virginia okra, coating it with rich melted butter, and sizzling it on the Arteflame grill until it’s beautifully charred and smoky. This quick and easy dish screams summer, showcasing the Arteflame’s perfect searing capabilities and delicious results on all levels of heat zones. From backyard BBQs to gourmet cookouts, these skewers shine on their own or as a flavorful side to a meaty main.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh Virginia okra, whole and washed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place three folded paper napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill bowl.
2. Pour a bit of vegetable oil over them to act as a quick fire starter.
3. Stack hardwood firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
4. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop and central grate are hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Okra

1. In a bowl, toss clean, whole Virginia okra with melted butter, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Thread 4–5 okra pods onto each skewer, piercing at the thickest part of the pods to hold them in place.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

1. Place the okra skewers on the Arteflame flat cooktop just outside the central grill grate for high-heat searing without direct flames.
2. Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes, turning to achieve a nice even char without burning.
3. Once tender and lightly blistered, remove from the grill and serve hot.

Tips

• Use the hotter inner griddle zone for initial caramelization, then move okra to the outer edge to finish cooking gently.
• Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Add a squeeze of lemon after grilling for a fresh finish.
• Feel free to brush with more melted butter while on the grill to enhance flavor and moisture.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Okra Skewers: Toss the okra in Cajun seasoning before grilling for a spicy Southern kick.
2. Garlic Herb Okra Skewers: Mix the melted butter with minced garlic and chopped rosemary or thyme.
3. Lemon Pepper Okra Skewers: Swap paprika for lemon pepper seasoning for a zingy citrus aroma.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Okra Skewers: For a richer version, wrap each okra pod in a half slice of bacon before skewering.
5. Parmesan Crusted Okra Skewers: Dust the okra with a bit of grated Parmesan after grilling for a savory finish.

Best pairings

• Grilled Ribeye steak (seared and reverse cooked on the Arteflame)
• Sweet grilled corn on the cob with butter and chili lime
• Fresh tomato and cucumber salad
• Cold southern iced tea or a pale ale
• Charred peach halves with honey for dessert

Conclusion

These Virginia Grilled Okra Skewers are a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy Southern vegetables on your Arteflame grill. The varying heat zones of the flat cooktop help you perfectly char and tenderize the okra without fear of burning. Whether you’re serving this as an appetizer or as a side dish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.