Crispy cornmeal coating and tender zucchini make a heavenly match. During summers, our garden zucchinis would grow out of control, leaving us with lots of zucchini bread and, luckily, fried zucchini too. The best way to prepare this Southern treat is with cornmeal, which adds crunch and flavor to the breading.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Zesty Dipping Sauce:
– Ketchup
– Peppered Twist (see instructions below)
– Ranch Dressing
– Dijon Mustard
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Thoroughly wash and dry the zucchinis. Trim the ends and cut them into uniform slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Create the Cornmeal Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, forming the tantalizing breading mix.
3. Prepare the Wet Dredge:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg and milk until well-blended.
4. Dredge the Zucchini Slices:
Dip each zucchini slice into the wet dredge, ensuring an even coat.Gently press the zucchini slice into the cornmeal coating, making sure both sides are coated perfectly. Shake off any excess breading.
5. Fry the Zucchini:
– In a large skillet or frying pan, pour vegetable oil until it’s about 1/2 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350F (175C).
– Carefully add the coated zucchini slices to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
– Fry each side for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until they acquire a mouthwatering golden brown hue with a delightful crunch.
-Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried zucchini slices, placing them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Prepare the Optional Peppered Dipping Sauce:
For an extra zesty kick, mix ketchup with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to create the tantalizing peppered dipping sauce.
7. Serve and Savor:
– Arrange the crispy cornmeal-coated zucchini on a platter and serve promptly, accompanied by your preferred dipping sauce – be it classic ketchup, peppered twist, creamy ranch dressing, or tangy dijon mustard.
– Relish the delectable flavors and crispy texture of this Southern-inspired fried zucchini recipe, capturing the essence of summer’s delights throughout the year.
