1/4 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper
2 cups sliced fresh okra
Vegetable oil
Salt (optional)

Combine first 9 ingredients; stir in okra. Pour oil to depth of 2 inches in a Dutch oven; heat to 350 degrees F. Drop mixture by tablespoonsful into oil, and cook until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt, if desired, and serve immediately.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.