Description
This Southern Fried Squash recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on classic summer squash. Coated in a seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, then fried to a golden brown, the squash slices turn out perfectly crunchy on the outside while tender inside. Ideal as a side dish or snack, this quick 24-minute recipe uses simple ingredients and a straightforward frying method to achieve authentic Southern comfort food at home.
Ingredients
Squash
- 1 pound yellow squash (about 2 large)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Wet Mixture
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, well beaten
- 1 tablespoon flour
For Frying
- Oil, for frying (about 1/2 inch depth in skillet)
Instructions
- Slice the squash: Slice 1 pound of yellow squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Using a mandolin can help ensure even slices. Set aside.
- Prepare the breading mix: In a medium shallow bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal, 2 teaspoons seasoned salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Mix well to create a seasoned coating.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In another medium shallow bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup buttermilk, 1 large well-beaten egg, and 1 tablespoon flour until smooth.
- Dip the squash: Take each squash slice and dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off back into the bowl.
- Coat with breading: Coat the dipped squash slices thoroughly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Place coated slices on a plate or work as you go.
- Heat oil: In a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron), heat about 1/2 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Fry the squash: Carefully add squash slices in batches to the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy on both sides, about 4 minutes total, flipping occasionally. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain excess oil: Remove fried squash using a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Keep crisp: Transfer the squash to a wire rack set over a sheet tray to maintain crispiness while you fry remaining batches.
- Serve: Repeat the dipping and frying process until all slices are cooked. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy Southern Fried Squash.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for even heating and better frying results.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy squash and ensure crunch.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature stable and the coating crispy.
- You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini if preferred.
- Serve immediately for best crispness; leftovers can be reheated in a single layer in the oven.