Fried Zucchini Flowers
These Fried Zucchini Flowers are light, crispy, and full of flavor. The delicate zucchini flowers are dipped in a light, airy batter and fried to golden perfection. They make an excellent appetizer or snack, offering a delightful contrast in texture between the crispy batter and the tender zucchini flower. For an extra treat, you can stuff the flowers with rich ricotta or goat cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh zucchini flowers cleaned and stems trimmed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: Ricotta cheese or goat cheese for stuffing
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini Flowers: Gently rinse the zucchini flowers under cold water and pat them dry. If desired, stuff each flower with a spoonful of ricotta or goat cheese.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the cold sparkling water, mixing until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Flowers: Dip each zucchini flower into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated, and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Once fried, transfer the zucchini flowers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of salt, and enjoy!
Notes
Stuffing the zucchini flowers with ricotta or goat cheese is optional but adds a rich flavor. Be gentle when stuffing to avoid tearing the delicate petals. Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial to achieving crispy and non-greasy results. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350°F (175°C). Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a light dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!