Country fried squash is a delightful twist on a classic Southern dish that brings a crispy, golden texture to the table. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the comforting flavors of fried foods but want to incorporate more vegetables into their meals. The combination of cornmeal and flour creates a crunchy coating that pairs beautifully with the tender, slightly sweet squash. Whether served as a side dish or a snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
For this recipe, you might need to pick up a few items that aren't always stocked in every pantry. Buttermilk is a key ingredient that adds a tangy flavor and helps the coating adhere to the squash. If you don't have it on hand, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. Additionally, ensure you have enough vegetable oil for frying, as it is essential for achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
Ingredients For Country Fried Squash Recipe
Squash: A tender vegetable that becomes the star of this dish, providing a slightly sweet and mild flavor.
All-purpose flour: Used to create a base for the crispy coating, helping to bind the cornmeal and spices to the squash.
Cornmeal: Adds a crunchy texture to the coating, giving the squash its signature fried finish.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, bringing out the natural sweetness of the squash.
Black pepper: Provides a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the coating mixture.
Buttermilk: A tangy liquid that helps the coating adhere to the squash, adding flavor and moisture.
Vegetable oil: Essential for frying, it ensures the squash slices cook evenly and achieve a golden brown color.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the squash, ensure that the slices are evenly cut to about ¼ inch thick. This uniformity allows for consistent cooking, ensuring each piece becomes perfectly crispy. Additionally, when you dredge the squash in the flour mixture, press gently to ensure a good coating. This will help the breading adhere better and create a delightful crunch. Lastly, maintain the oil temperature at medium heat to avoid burning the coating while ensuring the squash cooks through.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
sliced squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a great alternative for frying.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour provides a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, while still allowing for a crispy coating.
cornmeal - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a crunchy texture similar to cornmeal and can be used for a crispy coating.
salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a hint of garlic flavor while still providing the necessary saltiness.
black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, offering a different flavor profile.
buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can mimic the tanginess and thickness of buttermilk, making it a suitable replacement.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a similar high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it ideal for frying.
Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the squash to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the fried squash soggy.
Use an airtight container to store the country fried squash in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the squash. Place the cooled slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the squash slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
When ready to enjoy, reheat the squash directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer for a quicker option. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Avoid microwaving the fried squash as it can result in a less crispy texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover country fried squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and regain some crispiness.
Use an air fryer for a quick and efficient method. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the squash slices in a single layer in the basket. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
If you prefer the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the fried squash slices in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy.
For a microwave option, place the squash on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Cover them with another paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even coating for the squash slices.
Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used to heat the oil and fry the squash slices until they are golden brown.
Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the ingredients like flour, cornmeal, and buttermilk to ensure the right proportions.
Tongs: Handy for turning the squash slices in the hot oil and removing them once they are cooked.
Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the fried squash slices, keeping them crispy.
Knife: Essential for slicing the squash into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Cutting board: A safe surface for slicing the squash to protect your countertop and knife.
Time-Saving Tips for This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Slice the squash and mix the flour and cornmeal mixture ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a large frying pan: A bigger pan allows you to fry more squash slices at once, reducing overall cooking time.
Preheat the oil: Ensure the vegetable oil is hot before adding the squash to achieve a crispy texture quickly.
Batch cooking: Fry in batches and keep the cooked squash warm in the oven while finishing the rest.
Efficient cleanup: Line a tray with paper towels before starting to save time on cleanup.
Country Fried Squash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced squash
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Dip squash slices in buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture.
- 3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- 4. Fry squash slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- 5. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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