Pan Fried Zucchini Flowers

Directions

1. For the batter - mix flour, salt and water in a large bowl. Set aside and let stand for 1 hour. Just before dipping the flowers into the batter whisk in the egg.
2. For the stuffing – mix the egg, ricotta, shallot, herbs, salt and pepper until well blended and set aside.
3. To stuff the flowers – make a slit lengthwise in each flower and remove the stamen. Using a dessert spoon, place a small amount of the stuffing at the base of each flower and twist the petals so that the stuffing is held safely inside the flower. Place on a baking sheet.
4. Heat a large heavy-bottom skillet to high heat. Add the oil. When the oil is hot, dip each flower in the batter and add them to the pan. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until golden. Flip the flowers and continue to sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until golden. Repeat until all flowers have been used, reducing the heat to medium-high when the pan is very hot so the oil doesn’t burn.
5. To serve, overlap 4 to 6 flowers in the center of each plate and serve immediately.
6. Cook's note - The flowers must be served piping hot, they become soggy as they cool.
7. © 2011 Viviane Bauquet Farre — Food & Style NY LLC. Foodandstyle.com