Crispy Fried Zucchini Batter
Elevate your fried vegetables with this Crispy Fried Zucchini Batter, inspired by a classic Argo Cornstarch recipe from the 1980s. This batter provides a perfectly light and crunchy coating, making it ideal for zucchini and a versatile choice for other veggies and even seafood. Enhance the flavor with additional seasonings, including garlic powder and a dash of hot sauce, to suit your palate. For a perfectly crispy finish, season lightly with salt just after frying.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cornstarch
3/4 cup (none)
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (none)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste if desired)
water
1/2 cup (none)
egg
1 (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well blended.
2
Add water and an egg to the dry ingredients. Whisk together until the batter is smooth and has a consistent texture.
3
Heat approximately 1/3 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until hot.
4
Dip sliced zucchini into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
5
Carefully place the battered zucchini slices into the hot oil, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried zucchini to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7
If desired, sprinkle lightly with additional salt immediately after frying. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of this Crispy Fried Zucchini Batter recipe?
This recipe is inspired by a classic Argo Cornstarch recipe from the 1980s, designed to provide a light and crunchy coating.
What ingredients make the batter extra crispy?
The combination of 3/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder creates the signature crispy texture.
Can I use this batter for other foods besides zucchini?
Yes, this versatile batter is ideal for various other vegetables and even seafood.
How can I add more flavor to the batter?
You can enhance the flavor by adding extra garlic powder, seasonings of your choice, or a dash of hot sauce.
When should I salt the fried zucchini?
For the best result, season the zucchini lightly with salt immediately after frying while it is still hot.
What is the first step in preparing the batter?
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well blended.
How do I achieve a smooth batter consistency?
Whisk the water and one egg into the dry ingredients until the texture is smooth and consistent.
How much oil is needed for frying?
Heat approximately 1/3 inch of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
How long should I fry each zucchini slice?
Fry the battered slices for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
How should I drain the excess oil?
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried zucchini to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
What amount of cornstarch is required?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of cornstarch.
What amount of flour is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
Does the recipe use baking powder?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of baking powder is used to help the batter rise and become airy.
How much salt is in the batter mix?
The batter includes 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.
Is black pepper included in the seasoning?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
What is the recommended amount of garlic powder?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, which can be adjusted to your personal taste.
How much water is added to the batter?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of water.
How many eggs are needed?
Only one egg is needed for this batter recipe.
Should the zucchini be sliced before dipping?
Yes, dip the sliced zucchini into the batter ensuring each piece is evenly coated before frying.
What temperature should the oil be?
The oil should be heated over medium-high heat until it is hot enough to fry the batter immediately.
Should I serve the zucchini hot or cold?
Fried zucchini is best served warm to maintain its crispy texture.
Can I prepare the dry mix in advance?
Yes, you can combine the dry ingredients beforehand and add the wet ingredients just before you are ready to fry.
What tool is best for flipping the zucchini?
A slotted spoon or tongs can be used to carefully flip and remove the zucchini slices.
Does this batter contain sugar?
No, this is a savory batter and does not contain any sugar.
How many ingredients are in the batter in total?
There are 8 ingredients: cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, water, and an egg.
Is this recipe considered a vintage style?
Yes, it is tagged as an '80s recipe' based on its inspiration from classic mid-century cornstarch batters.
What is the primary thickener in the batter?
Cornstarch is the primary thickener, used in a 3:1 ratio with all-purpose flour.
How do I ensure the batter doesn't fall off?
Ensure the zucchini slices are evenly coated and the oil is hot enough so the batter sets immediately upon contact.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is standard, the recipe specifically uses a blend of flour and cornstarch for the best crunch.
Is the garlic powder preparation special?
No special preparation is needed, though you can adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preference.