Description
Indulge in the unique and delightful flavors of Crispy Cucumber Blossom Fritters with Zesty Dipping Sauce. This recipe transforms delicate cucumber blossoms into crispy, golden brown fritters, complemented by a tangy and spicy homemade dipping sauce. Ideal as an appetizer or a standout snack, these fritters bring a burst of flavor and texture that promises to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- Optional: Cayenne pepper (to taste, up to ½ teaspoon for a spicy kick)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (beaten)
- ⅓ cup club soda or unflavored seltzer
- 1.5–2 cups cucumber plant blossoms (male blossoms only, washed and dried)
- ¼–½ cup finely diced scallions
- ~2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Splash of hot sauce (to taste)
- Squeeze of lime juice (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, ensuring you have everything needed to create the batter as the oil heats.
- Preheat Oil: Heat the oil in a deep frying pot or fryer to 325°F–350°F. Use a toothpick to check if the oil is ready; it should bubble around the stick when inserted.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, optional cayenne pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with the club soda or seltzer until just combined; expect fizzing.
- Make the Batter: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until they form a thick, slightly lumpy batter.
- Add Blossoms and Scallions: Fold in the cucumber blossoms and scallions gently to avoid overmixing.
- Fry the Fritters: Use a tablespoon or a scoop to drop the batter into the hot oil. Fry each fritter for 3–5 minutes or until golden, turning once. Adjust the heat as necessary.
- Drain: Remove the fritters with tongs and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. Adjust the ingredients to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm fritters with the dipping sauce on the side.