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Fried Ricotta Stuffed Squash Blossoms

Squash blossoms remind me of Grandma Zani. She used to stuff them like she stuffed her ravioli. I’ve only ever eaten them a handful of times, and it’s been a while, but I almost remember exactly the savory, breadcrumb-cheesy filling. Breadcrumbs are key. You would think I’d ask her why, but instead, we always assumed…

Squash blossoms remind me of Grandma Zani. She used to stuff them like she stuffed her ravioli. I’ve only ever eaten them a handful of times, and it’s been a while, but I almost remember exactly the savory, breadcrumb-cheesy filling. Breadcrumbs are key. You would think I’d ask her why, but instead, we always assumed it was to stretch. She had to feed a family of 9 after all. They were presented on a paper towel-lined plate or lying on a paper towel in a to-go container my dad brought home. I can’t quite remember, but it feels special. I don’t think she fried them; instead, she baked, so the blossom sort of melted into and adhered to the filling. My recipe is a little different but a nod to hers with the addition of breadcrumb. It mostly leans on ricotta and pecorino!

I hand picked the blossoms at a farm in the Hudson valley where we also picked apples. Since I deep fried these in a tempura batter, I made a salad with fresh apple, fennel, kale, and grapefruit vinaigrette. It was exactly the balance needed. You already have your carb and some protein.

Squash Blossoms are a little freaky if you haven’t worked with them before. I’ve never stuffed them before, so I wasn’t sure how to handle. Some tips for blossom care:

  • I suggest using them day of. Like a flower out of water, the blossoms lose their poise and become soggy. I put mine in a container of cold water and left it in the fridge overnight to revive, and it only helped slightly. Maybe not the best idea, but learning!
  • Remove the central female pistil or male stamen. I’m sure it’s fine to eat, but I imagine it won’t be texturally pleasant.
  • Piping bags are the best tool for filling delicate blossoms. Hold the blossom in your non-dominant hand and pipe with your dominant hand.

I never knew Grandma Zani had a gorgeous pot like this one. It was hiding somewhere in that house and now I wonder what she used it for. We’ll call it a vintage Lilia! Maybe frying squash blossoms in a squash blossom pot is too on the nose? But it’s easily become one of my favorite kitchen pieces. A bit of a relic.

I’d love to know what your kitchen relics are. Do share!

Print Recipe
3.04 from 145 votes

Fried Ricotta Stuffed Squash Blossoms

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 2 servings

Equipment

  • piping bag

Ingredients

For The Blossoms

  • 12 oz whole milk ricotta
  • 1/2 c. grated pecorino Romano
  • 1/4 c. finely ground plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp. freshly ground cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 10 squash blossoms
  • 3 c. vegetable oil

Tempura Batter

  • 1 c. all purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 c. seltzer
  • maldon salt

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl combine ricotta, pecorino, breadcrumbs, pepper, and salt. Fill a piping bag with mixture. Snip off about 1/2 inch from the tip.
  • Clean, and and dry your squash blossoms. Remove the stamen. Fill squash blossoms with ricotta mixture about halfway up the blossom. Use the leaves to enclose the blossoms. Set aside on a sheet tray or plate.
  • Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until temperature reaches 350°F.
  • In a large bowl whisk flour and baking powder. Add seltzer and whisk until few lumps remain. The mixture she have a loose pancake consistency. Dip stuffed squash blossoms into batter. Immediently and carefully place the battered blossoms into the pot. Fry in 2 to 3 batches, 3 to 4 minutes each or until aerated, crispy and lightly golden. Flip halfway through if not fully submerged.
  • Remove squash blossoms to a paper towel lined plate. Sprinkle with maldon or kosher salt.

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