Crispy Zucchini Fries with Peanut Oil

Crispy Fried Zucchini Recipe

Category: Appetizer
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information:
(Per serving – Approximate values)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly and trimming off both ends. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into pieces about 1 cm thick. After that, cut each slice in half to create more manageable pieces.

2. Salt and Drain the Zucchini:
   Place the sliced zucchini pieces in a colander, and sprinkle the coarse salt evenly over them. Let the zucchini sit for about two hours, allowing the salt to draw out the excess moisture. You’ll notice that the water will collect at the bottom of the bowl beneath the colander. This step is essential for ensuring that the zucchini fries turn out crispy.

3. Rinse and Dry the Zucchini:
   After the two hours have passed, rinse the zucchini under cold running water to remove the excess salt. This helps balance the flavor and prevent the zucchini from becoming too salty. Once rinsed, pat the zucchini dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.

4. Heat the Oil:
   Pour the peanut oil into a large frying pan or pot. Heat the oil to 170°C (338°F). You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of zucchini into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

5. Coat the Zucchini:
   While the oil is heating, place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl or plate. Coat each zucchini slice in the flour, making sure they are evenly covered. Shake off any excess flour using a fine sieve or your hands, ensuring that the zucchini are lightly dusted.

6. Fry the Zucchini:
   Gently place the floured zucchini slices into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the zucchini for about 4-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once all the zucchini pieces are fried, serve them hot and crispy. These golden, crunchy zucchini fries are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce or enjoying on their own. Serve them immediately while they are still warm and crispy for the best texture and flavor.

These crispy fried zucchini slices are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, bringing together the delicate flavor of zucchini with a satisfying crunch. Simple to prepare yet wonderfully delicious, this dish will impress your guests or make a tasty snack for yourself. Enjoy!