Zucchini and battered zucchini flowers

Zucchini and zucchini flowers in batter - A delicious choice for a light and savory breakfast

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

On a sunny morning, nothing compares to the unmistakable aroma of crispy and delicious fried zucchini and zucchini flowers. This dish is an excellent choice for a healthy breakfast but can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or snack. The recipe I will share with you is simple, quick, and full of flavor, perfect for starting the day in a delicious way.

A brief history of the dish

Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a versatile ingredient appreciated for centuries in cuisines around the world. It is rich in nutrients and low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Zucchini flowers, delicate and fragrant, are a true culinary delight. They have become popular in Mediterranean dishes, where they are often lightly fried to preserve their crunchy texture and fresh taste.

Ingredients for battered zucchini and zucchini flowers

- 4-5 zucchini
- 8-10 zucchini flowers
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Breadcrumbs (about 100 g)
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil for frying (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)

Details about the ingredients

- Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchini with smooth, shiny skin. If they are too large, the skin may become tough, so it’s advisable to peel them. If they are small, the skin is tender and full of nutrients, so you can leave it on.
- Zucchini flowers: Make sure the flowers are fresh, with a bright color and no spots. They can be delicate and should be handled with care.
- Eggs and milk: The eggs add a rich texture and delicious flavor, while the milk helps achieve a more homogeneous mixture.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use regular breadcrumbs or whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. You can also add spices like garlic powder or dried herbs to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Prepare the zucchini: If the zucchinis are large, peel them. If they are smaller and tender, you can leave the skin on. Cut the zucchinis lengthwise in half, and if they are larger, you can cut them into slices about 1-2 cm thick. This will help them fry evenly.

2. Salting the zucchini: Sprinkle salt on the zucchinis and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential to extract excess water, which will help achieve a crispy texture after frying.

3. Draining the zucchini: After they have sat, drain the zucchinis well. You can use a clean towel to absorb any remaining moisture.

4. Preparing the egg mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs together with the milk and a pinch of salt. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick better to the zucchinis.

5. Dipping in breadcrumbs: Take each piece of zucchini, dip it in the egg mixture, then in the breadcrumbs, and repeat the process to achieve a thicker crust. This step will make the zucchinis extra crispy.

6. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure it is hot enough - you can check by adding a small piece of zucchini; if it bubbles, it’s ready. Fry the zucchinis on both sides for 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

7. Frying the zucchini flowers: The zucchini flowers can be fried directly in the hot oil without being dipped in egg. This will keep their crispy and delicate texture.

Serving suggestions

Serve the battered zucchini and zucchini flowers hot, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill. You can also add a few slices of lemon for a fresh taste. They pair perfectly with aromatic coffee or green tea, offering a combination of flavors and nutrients.

Variations and tips

- Vegetarian variation: You can add spices like paprika or cumin to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Stuffed zucchini: If you want to experiment, you can stuff the zucchini flowers with cottage cheese and fresh herbs before frying them.
- Accompanying sauces: Try serving the battered zucchini and zucchini flowers with an aioli sauce or a tzatziki sauce for a special culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?: It is recommended to use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen zucchini if you have nothing else on hand. Make sure they are well drained before cooking.

2. What other vegetables can be used instead of zucchini?: You can experiment with eggplant, carrots, or potatoes, which can also be very tasty when battered.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of zucchini?: Zucchini is rich in vitamins (C and A), minerals (potassium), and fiber, while being low in calories. It is an excellent ingredient for a healthy diet.

Now that you have all the details, all that’s left is to get to work. Battered zucchini and zucchini flowers are an excellent choice to start the day with energy and good mood. Enjoy your meal!