Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty dinner idea? Look no further! This batter fried squash recipe is a game-changer. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a satisfying crunch with a delightfully soft interior. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about simple, fresh ingredients transformed into a delicious, healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (or other winter squash like acorn or kabocha), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1 cup sparkling water or beer (for a crispier batter)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
- Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor
Instructions:
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Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until slightly tender but still firm. This pre-roasting step helps to prevent soggy squash.
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Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Slowly whisk in the sparkling water or beer until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable. If it's too thick, add a little more liquid; if it's too thin, add a little more flour.
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Fry the Squash: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of batter should sizzle immediately), dip each piece of roasted squash into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Carefully place the battered squash into the hot skillet, avoiding overcrowding.
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Cook to Perfection: Fry the squash for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to ensure even cooking. Remove the fried squash from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious batter fried squash immediately. It's fantastic as a side dish, a light meal on its own, or as part of a larger spread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy squash instead of crispy goodness.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a delicious kick.
- Pre-roasting is key: Roasting the squash beforehand helps to remove excess moisture, resulting in crispier fried squash.
Variations:
- Spicy Squash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy twist.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage into the batter for an aromatic touch.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fried squash before serving for an extra cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This batter fried squash recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of crispy batter and sweet squash is irresistible. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!