Okra Fritters

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.