Fried Zucchini Blossoms

Okay, I have to admit....I love zucchini blossoms. They have to be one of the most delicious things I have ever eaten. The shame of it is, you can't always find them. Actually, it's more like you can never find them unless you grow your own zucchini. But nonetheless...if you ever come across them..scoop them up and try this awesome recipe.

Fried Zucchini Blossoms

1 lb. zucchini blossoms, rinsed in cold water and drained
1 cup warm water (110 degrees)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dried yeast
1 1/4 cups flour
Salt and fresh ground pepper
1 teaspoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Olive oil

In a large mixing bowl, mix together yeast and warm water, stirring until yeast is dissolved; set aside in a warm place for about 10 minutes. Add the flour and whisk vigorously until smooth. Allow to rest for 20 minutes to fully activate the yeast. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and the parsley. Blend until the it reaches the consistency of pancake batter. In a Dutch oven, add 2 to 3 inches of oil. Slowly bring oil to frying temperature, 375 degrees. Dip the blossoms in the batter, making sure each blossom is covered completely. Working in small batches, place the blossoms in the hot oil, turning until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Footnotes - If you do not have a thermometer, spoon a few drops of batter into the oil. When they rise to the top, you know the oil is hot enough.