These Fried Squash Blossoms are a delicate and delicious summer treat, featuring fresh blossoms stuffed with melted string cheese and encased in a light, crispy tempura batter. The blossoms are fried to golden perfection and finished with a sprinkle of Hawaiian Volcano Guava Smoked Sea Salt, adding a unique smoky twist that perfectly balances the creamy cheese filling. Sourced fresh from your garden or local market, these elegant appetizers are both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty, making them a standout at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- Fresh squash blossoms
- White string cheese sticks (1 stick for every 2 blossoms, cut in half and frozen for 20-30 minutes)
- Boxed tempura batter (or homemade), mixed according to package instructions
- Oil for frying (peanut or canola oil)
- Hawaiian Volcano Guava Smoked Sea Salt
Instructions:
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven to 375°F.
- Carefully remove the stamen from inside the bottom of each squash blossom without tearing the petals.
- Place a semi-frozen or frozen cheese stick half inside each flower and gently twist the ends to close the blossom around the cheese.
- Dip the stuffed blossoms in the prepared tempura batter, letting the excess drip off.
- Fry the blossoms in the hot oil for 1 to 1 ½ minutes, turning to fry the second side for about 1 minute, until crispy on all sides.
- Remove the blossoms and place them on a rack over a baking sheet lined with a paper towel to drain.
- While still hot, sprinkle with Hawaiian Volcano Guava Smoked Sea Salt.
- Serve immediately for best texture.