Deep-fried zucchini flowers

Name: Deep-fried zucchini flowers
Prep time: 17 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 37 min
Yield: 15
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 1 small zucchini, finely diced (1/4″ cubes)2; 1 white onion, finely diced (1/4″ cubes); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 lime, zested and juiced; 2 ounces plain chevre or feta3; 1/4 cup marscapone; 2 ounces low-fat cream cheese; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan or asiago; 1 – 3 tablespoon half-n-half or milk, as needed; salt and pepper; olive oil; 1 egg; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cold water; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Appetizer

Very Easy

37 min

Preparation

Preparation17 min

Cook time20 min

In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil until shimmering, then add diced zucchini and onion.
Saute until nicely browned. Remove to a medium bowl. Combine cheeses, smoked paprika, lime zest and juice along with a healthy pinch of salt and pepper with the zucchini mixture.
It will be quite thick. Add half-n-half or milk to thin it slightly to a workable consistency, like cake frosting.
Prepare your preferred deep-fry method. If you have a fryer, fill it with the appropriate amount of oil as required for operation and begin heating it to 350F.
Rinse the flowers well and pat dry. Remove the little pistil thingie inside each flower along with any sharp leaves and discard.
Carefully stuff each flower about half-full and twist the petals carefully to keep them shut. Arrange on a board.
In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients for the tempura batter. Dip each filled flower in the batter and swirl to coat.
Drop carefully into the hot oil – you don’t want to splash. Don’t overcrowd the fryer either – you don’t want the oil temperature to drop very far.
Fry for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden brown. They will get a shade or two darker while they cool.
Remove to a rack set over paper towels or newsprint to drain off excess oil and sprinkle over with salt.