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Fried Squash Blossoms with Corn and Mozzarella





Yields
Serves 4 to 6 as an appetizer (serving size: 1 blossom)



Total Time
1 hr

The squash blossoms Zuni Cafe chef Judy Rodgers made for the first Tasting were a revelation to diners. This lighter version is still satisfyingly stuffed with cheese and corn, but has the barest sheath of batter.

su-Fried Squash Blossoms with Corn and Mozzarella




Photo: Iain Bagwell; Styling: Emma Star Jensen
 1/4 pound fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/4-in. dice
  Kernels from 1 ear fresh corn
 1 tablespoon minced red onion
 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  About 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  About 1/4 teaspoon pepper
 18 zucchini or butternut squash blossoms, with stems if you like
  Canola oil for frying
 1/2 cup buttermilk
 1/2 cup rice flour
  Snipped chives or small fresh basil leaves (or torn if large)
  Lemon wedges (optional)
Step 1
1

Mix cheese, corn, onion, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Gently stuff each blossom with about 1 1/2 teaspoons filling and twist ends of petals closed.

Step 2
2

Pour oil into a medium, heavy pot or saucepan until 3 in. deep. Heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 360° to 375°.

Step 3
3

Put buttermilk and rice flour in separate containers (loaf pans work well, since the high sides prevent spilling).

Step 4
4

One at a time, dip each stuffed blossom into buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dip in flour, coating lightly but evenly.

Step 5
5

Shake off excess flour and fry blossoms in small batches until golden brown, 45 seconds to 1 minute. Gently submerge blossoms with a slotted spoon to cook tops. Drain on paper towels. Season with salt, sprinkle with chives or basil, and serve with lemon wedges if you like.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 0

Amount Per Serving
Calories 56Calories from Fat 52
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3.2g5%

Saturated Fat 1.1g6%
Cholesterol 5.4mg2%
Sodium 33mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 5g2%

Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
Protein 1.7g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.