Mel’s Fried Zucchini

Ingredients

• 2-3 WHOLE ZUCCHINI

• 1 C. FLOUR

• ½ C. CORNSTARCH

• 2 T. SALT

• 2 T. PEPPER

• 2 T. ONION POWDER

• 1 C. CLUB SODA

• 1 C. PANKO BREADCRUMBS

• 1 C. ITALIAN STYLE BREADCRUMBS

• OLIVE OIL FOR FRYING

• ½ - 1 C. PARMESAN CHEESE

• 2 LEMONS, CUT INTO WEDGES (GARNISH)

Instructions

1. Wash zucchini and cut off ends.  Cut lengthwise in half, then continue until you have spears. Set aside.

2. Prepare the batter:

3. Combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, onion powder and club soda into a large mixing bowl. 

4. Wisk until combined.  The batter should be the consistency of a thick pancake batter. 

5. Add more club soda to thin, or more flour to thicken.

6. Dip the zucchini spears into batter and coat each side. 

7. Allow excess batter to drip before transferring to a bowl of panko and Italian Style breadcrumbs to coat. 

8. Once all zucchini is battered and dipped, heat oil in a frying pan and begin frying zucchini for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. 

9. Place cooked zucchini on a wire cooling rack to drain oil and then place on a plate and sprinkle parmesan cheese over top.

10. Serve with fresh cut lemons and a ramekin of ChefMel’s Sweet Sicilian sauce for dipping.