Fried Squash Blossoms

Name: Fried Squash Blossoms
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 count Squash blossoms (Wash thoroughly and gently remove pistils.); 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black pepper; 1 cup Cornmeal; 1 cup Vegetable oil (For frying)

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What are some of the best Fried Squash Blossoms? If you’ve never had zucchini fritters, imagine the most delicate, slightly sweet zucchini fries you have ever had. With a hint of floral aroma and golden-brown coating, elevate that experience. This isn’t just food. It’s It’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. A dish that takes you right back to sunny afternoons and sunsets. Are gardens overflowing with life? To be honest, it’s easier than most fritters and way more impressive. They taste like little bites of sunshine! I swear, these disappear faster than a batch of chocolate chip cookies at my house.

What is fried squash?

Think of Fried Squash Blossoms as nature’s tempura. These are the edible flowers of squash plants – typically zucchini, butternut, or other summer plants. What are squash varieties? The blossoms are gently cleaned and stuffed with a creamy, savory filling (though you can also do this as well). If you’re a sweet tooth, dipped in light batter, and then quickly fried until golden brown. What is essentially taking a delicate flower and transforming it into an enjoyable culinary experience? I know it sounds fancy, but trust me, it’s way more approachable than you might think. My grandmother used to make these every summer, and the smell alone brings back so many happy memories.

Why do I love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some good reasons to fall in love with Fried Squash Blossoms?

The Flavor:The combination of the delicate squash blossom, the creamy filling, and the crispy fried coating is perfect. What’s the sweetness from the blossom itself, balanced by the savory filling and a satisfying dessert?
Simplicity:What are some of the easiest recipes to make? Once you get the hang of the batter and the filling, it comes together in a snap. I always make a big batch because they go so quickly.
Cost-If you grow your own squash, or have access to a local farmer’s market, you can get these blossoms. For next to nothing. What is a gourmet meal on tavern?
Versatility: While I’m sharing my favorite savory version, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Try a sweet ricotta filling with a drizzle of honey, or add some herbs and spices to the batter for extra flavor. I’ve even experimented with different cheeses for the filling – goat cheese is amazing!

What I love most about this is how it transforms something so simple and fleeting into a truly memorable dish. These Fried Squash Blossoms are like a little taste of summer magic. If you love zucchini fritters or anything lightly fried and delicious, you absolutely have to try this.

How do I make fried squash blossoms?

Quick Overview

How do you make a fried squash blossom? The batter, creating a flavorful filling, and then frying them to golden perfection. How do I not overcrowd a pan? Is the whole process so quick? Once you make these once, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

For the main battery:

1 cup all-purpose flour (I’ve also tested this with gluten-free all-purpose flour with good results!)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt.
What’s the best way to make a crispy batter?
1 large egg, lightly beaten.

For the Filling:

What is the best flavor for ricotta cheese?
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. 1 cup shredded Par
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil.
1 clove of garlic, minced. 1 t
Salt and pepper to taste

Other:

12-15 squash blossoms, gently cleaned.
Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill a large skillet about 1 inch deep)

What are the step-

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that a small piece of batter dropped in sizzles immediately. While the oil is heating, line a plate with paper towels to drain the fried blossoms.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure there are no lumps – a smooth batter is key. I always sift the flour for an extra-light batter, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the ice-cold water and the lightly beaten eggs. Set aside. What gives batter its lightness? Why is sparkling water ice cold? I always put the bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before I mix it all up.

Step 4: Combine

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay. If you overmix flour, you will get a tougher batter. I learned this the hard way – trust me on this one.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, chopped basil, and minced garlic. Set aside. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my salsa for spiciness!

Step 6: Stuff the Blossoms

Gently open each squash blossom and spoon about a tablespoon of the ricotta filling inside. Be careful not to overfill them, or the filling will ooze out during frying. Gently twist the ends of the blossoms to seal in the filling.

Step 7: Fry

How do you dip a stuffed squash blossom into the batter? Carefully place the battered blossoms into the hot oil, a few at the time. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the oil temperature will drop, and the blossoms will not get as crispy. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Drain

Remove the fried squash blossoms from the oil and place them on the prepared plate lined with paper. How do you drain excess oil on a towel? How do I get them crisp and nice?

Step 9: Serve

Serve the Fried Squash Blossoms immediately while they’re hot and crispy. What is the perfect finishing touch to a dish? A sprinkle of sea salt or lemon juice.

What should I serve it with?

These Fried Squash Blossoms are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many different ways. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

As an Appetizer:Serve them with a simple marinara sauce or dipping sauce. What are the best party favors?

As a light lunch:What are some good side dishes to serve with a salad? Arugula with lemon vinaigrette is a perfect complement.

As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside grilled fish or chicken for a touch of elegance. They add a lovely pop of flavor and texture to any plate.

For a Special Brunch: These are fantastic with fried eggs. Seriously decadent and yummy!

I also love serving them with a chilled glass of Prosecco or a crisp white wine. The bubbles and acidity help to cut through the richness of the fried blossoms. These Fried Squash Blossoms are always a crowd-pleaser, no matter how you serve them!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Fried Squash Blossoms

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure my Fried Squash Blossoms are always perfect. Here are some of my top tips:

Choose Fresh Blossoms: Look for blossoms that are vibrant in color and have a slightly firm texture. Avoid any that are wilted or bruised. Fresh blossoms will have the best flavor and texture.

Handle with Care: Squash blossoms are delicate, so handle them gently when cleaning and stuffing. I like to use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris.

Keep the Batter Cold: A cold batter is key to achieving a light and crispy coating. I even chill my mixing bowl in the freezer for a few minutes before making the batter.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the blossoms in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping. Overcrowding the pan will result in soggy, greasy blossoms.

Adjust the Filling to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices in the filling. I’ve tried everything from goat cheese and thyme to mozzarella and pesto. The possibilities are endless!

Temperature Check!: Ensure that the oil reaches a high enough temperature, but not so high that it burns. I always use a thermometer to ensure it is at the perfect temperature.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making Fried Squash Blossoms that are truly irresistible. These are a labor of love that everyone loves!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Fried Squash Blossoms are best enjoyed immediately while they’re hot and crispy. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend storing these at room temperature, as they can get soggy.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the fried blossoms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. They will lose some of their crispness, but they’ll still be delicious.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the fried blossoms on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore some of their crispness.

Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend freezing these. They just don’t taste the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The ratio will be the same – 1 cup of gluten-free flour for 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the gluten-free batter may be a bit thicker, so you might need to add a tablespoon or two of extra sparkling water to achieve the desired consistency.

Do I need to remove the stamen from the blossoms?

Yes, it’s generally recommended to remove the stamen (the pollen-producing part) from the female blossoms before cooking. This is because the stamen can sometimes have a slightly bitter taste. For male blossoms (which don’t have a stamen), you can leave them intact. To remove the stamen, simply gently pull it out with your fingers.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying is the traditional method and gives the best results, you can try baking them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the stuffed and battered blossoms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep in mind that they won’t be as crispy as the fried version, but they’ll still be delicious.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make the batter fresh just before frying. This is because the sparkling water will lose its fizz over time, which will affect the lightness of the batter. If you absolutely need to make it ahead of time, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to an hour, but be sure to give it a good whisk before using.

What else can I stuff the blossoms with?

The possibilities are endless! Some other filling ideas include:

Goat cheese and herbs
Mozzarella and pesto
Prosciutto and mascarpone
Sweet ricotta with honey and cinnamon

Let your creativity run wild and experiment with different flavors!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Fried Squash Blossoms. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress, whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a side dish. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my Zucchini Fritters or my Butternut Squash Soup – both are delicious ways to celebrate the flavors of summer and fall. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them too!

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