Breaded zucchini with sour cream sauce

Breaded Zucchini with Sour Cream Sauce

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe, breaded zucchini with sour cream sauce is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only simple, but it also brings a wonderful taste to your table. Whether you want to serve this dish as an appetizer or as a side, breaded zucchini is always a savory choice. Let's discover together how to transform a common ingredient into a culinary delight!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 medium zucchini (about 300-400 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g flour
- salt (to taste)
- 100 g sour cream
- 1 small cucumber
- 2 cloves of garlic
- oil for frying (olive or sunflower)

The history of breaded zucchini is fascinating; it is a dish that combines culinary traditions from various cultures. Zucchini, a versatile ingredient, has been appreciated over time for its delicate texture and ability to absorb surrounding flavors. When breaded, zucchini becomes crispy and flavorful, while the sour cream sauce adds a fresh and creamy note.

Detailed instructions:

1. Preparing the zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchini well. Cut it into slices about 5-7 mm thick. It is important not to cut them too thick so they fry evenly and remain tender inside. After slicing the zucchini, place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle salt over them. This step will help the zucchini release water, which will make the batter adhere better. Let the slices chill for 15-20 minutes.

2. Preparing for frying:
After the zucchini has chilled, you will notice that it has released a considerable amount of water. Drain the zucchini slices and gently dry them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Now, in three separate bowls, prepare:
- One bowl with flour mixed with a little salt,
- One bowl with well-beaten eggs (if you want, you can add a pinch of pepper for extra flavor).

3. Frying the zucchini:
In a deep skillet, heat the oil. Test the oil temperature by adding a drop of batter; if it sizzles, the oil is ready. Take each slice of zucchini, first dip it in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and carefully place it in the skillet. Fry the slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, so they fry evenly. Once done, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the sour cream sauce:
In a small bowl, peel the 2 cloves of garlic. Use a mortar to crush them well, adding a little salt to help turn them into a fine paste. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and mix. Grate the cucumber on the small holes of a grater and add it to the bowl along with the sour cream. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth sauce. You can adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a tablespoon of cold water if you prefer a thinner sauce.

5. Serving:
Serve the crispy zucchini alongside the sour cream sauce, garnishing with a bit of fresh dill or parsley, if desired. These breaded zucchinis are delicious both warm and cold, so feel free to enjoy them at any time of the day.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can season the flour with dried herbs such as oregano or basil.
- Breaded zucchini pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, such as a tomato and cucumber salad, to add a contrast of textures and make the meal more balanced.
- If you want a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with almond milk or a mixture of chickpea flour and water to create a similar batter.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
These breaded zucchinis are a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C and antioxidants. Zucchini is a low-calorie food, about 17 calories per 100 g, and frying in oil adds extra calories. However, consumed in moderation, this dish can be a healthy choice in your diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen zucchini?
While it's recommended to use fresh zucchini for the best results, you can use frozen zucchini, but the final texture may be different.
- How can I store breaded zucchini?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to enjoy the crispy texture.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish and savor every bite. Bon appétit!