Being born and raised in the south......my gm would beat an egg, add a small amount of water; soak the okra in the egg wash then coat with corn meal and a little flour. She would fry in bacon grease but I fry in canola oil, in HER old old old black iron skillet ! Fry crisp, season with salt and pepper and eat like popcorn !. I've also fried whole using the same method and it is delicious ! The buttermilk method sounds good also....think I'll go out to the garden and see if I have any okra that is ready......