These Fried Zucchini Fans are a delightful and creative way to enjoy zucchini. The zucchini is sliced into beautiful fan shapes, seasoned, and then fried to a perfect golden crisp. The garlic dill sauce adds a refreshing and tangy flavor that complements the crispy zucchini perfectly.
This dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. The combination of the crispy exterior and the tender interior makes it a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, appetizer, or a light main course, these Fried Zucchini Fans are sure to impress your family and friends.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 zucchini
- 3 eggs
- 0.5 cups flour
- 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Smoked paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp cold boiled water
- Vegetable oil for the sauce
Directions:
- Prepare the zucchini: Peel the zucchini using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Cut the zucchini into wide slices, leaving a couple of centimeters at the base to form a fan shape. Make additional cuts to create a fan effect.
- Season the zucchini: Sprinkle the zucchini with salt and let sit for 10-15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture and make the zucchini softer. After resting, lightly squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini slices.
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, break three eggs and add a pinch of salt, a tablespoon of mayonnaise, and a bit of pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Bread the zucchini: In a separate plate, mix the flour and breadcrumbs. Add smoked paprika if desired for extra flavor. Coat each zucchini slice in the flour mixture, making sure to get into all the cuts.
- Heat the oil: Heat a frying pan with vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the zucchini: Dip each zucchini fan into the egg batter, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Place the zucchini in the hot oil and fry until golden brown on one side, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and fry the other side until crispy and golden.
- Prepare the garlic dill sauce: While the zucchini is frying, crush the garlic cloves and chop the dill. Combine the garlic and dill in a bowl, add the cold boiled water, a pinch of salt, and a little vegetable oil. Mix well.
- Serve: Remove the fried zucchini from the pan and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with the garlic dill sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal (approx.) | Servings: 4 servings
TIPS AND SHARING IDEAS
- Zucchini Selection: Choose young, small to medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture and flavor. They are less watery and have a more concentrated flavor.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian herbs to the breadcrumbs can elevate the flavor.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter coating, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
- Oil Choice: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying to achieve a crisp texture without burning.
- Dipping Sauce Variations: The garlic dill sauce can be customized with your favorite herbs or a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini and coat them in breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.
- Serving Suggestions: These fried zucchini fans make a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or a light pasta dish.
- Leftover Ideas: If you have leftovers, reheat them in an oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness. They can also be chopped and added to salads or wraps for extra texture.
- Healthier Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the zucchini in the oven. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F), place the breaded zucchini on a baking sheet, and bake until golden and crispy, about 20 minutes.
- Engage Your Kids: Get your kids involved in the preparation by letting them help with the breading process. It’s a fun and easy way to engage them in cooking and encourage them to try new vegetables.