Grilled Okra with Sea Salt - North Carolina Style

Introduction

Grilled okra is a Southern classic, and when crisped to perfection on the Arteflame Grill and finished with just the right sprinkle of sea salt, it becomes one of summer’s best grilling treats. In North Carolina, we take pride in bringing out the freshest seasonal flavors with simplicity and care—this no-fuss grilled okra recipe delivers just that with smoky, charred goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh okra, whole and uncut
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp flake sea salt (or to taste)
• Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the bottom of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins. The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Okra

1. Rinse the okra under cool water and pat dry thoroughly with a towel.
2. Place the okra in a large bowl and drizzle with melted butter. Toss well until coated evenly.

Step 3: Grill the Okra

1. Arrange the butter-coated okra directly onto the hotter inner edge of the flat Arteflame cooktop.
2. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the okra is golden, lightly charred, and crisp-tender.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Transfer the grilled okra to a platter immediately after grilling.
2. Sprinkle flake sea salt generously while still hot.
3. Optional: Add a light dusting of cracked black pepper for an extra savory touch.

Tips

• Use smaller okra pods—they’re more tender and better for grilling.
• Grill close to the center ring of the Arteflame for a slightly higher heat sear without burning.
• Butter adds rich flavor and beautifully browns the okra. Don’t substitute with olive oil if you're after that golden seared finish.
• Don’t overcrowd the okra—give each pod space so they sear evenly and don’t steam.
• Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Okra: Toss the okra in melted butter and a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning before grilling.
2. Garlic Parmesan Okra: Brush okra with garlic-infused butter, grill, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan right off the grill.
3. Lemon Herb Okra: Grill okra as directed, then toss with lemon zest, fresh chopped thyme, and sea salt.
4. Smoky Chipotle Okra: Add a pinch of chipotle powder to the butter before coating the okra for a smoky kick.
5. Balsamic Glazed Okra: Drizzle grilled okra with a balsamic reduction just before serving for a sweet-tangy finish.

Conclusion

In North Carolina, we let farm-fresh ingredients shine. With this simple Arteflame grilled okra recipe, you’ll enjoy the natural flavor of okra enhanced with buttery char and crisp sea salt—perfect for cookouts and barbecue gatherings.

Best Pairings

• Reverse-seared ribeye steak or grilled pork chops done on the Arteflame grill
• Fresh tomato salad with basil and vinegar reduction
• Grilled cornbread or corn on the cob with chili butter
• Sweet iced tea or a light lager from a local North Carolina brewery