Smoky Fried Zucchini Nuggets With a Spicy Dipping Sauce - zucchini

Method

• Dip -- Simple - mix the sour cream, buttermilk, garlic, scallions, chipotle, salt and pepper.
• Cover and refrigerate.
• If you like it a bit thinner, just add a bit more buttermilk.
• Make ahead.
• Bacon -- Make this ahead as well.
• Just pan saute until crisp - remove to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain.
• Zucchini -- I used 4, but they were a bit small.
• I actually mix all the flour and liquid ingredients first and then add in the zucchini.
• This way I start with 3 but I can always add another zucchini if needed.
• In a large bowl, mix the egg and milk and whisk well.
• Add in the cayenne, shallot, chives and jalapeno and stir to combine.
• Then add the flour and baking powder and finally add in the zucchini and bacon.
• Mix well to combine everything.
• As I said, you will need between 3-4 zucchinis depending on the size.
• It is a fairly thick mix, almost like hush puppies.
• Fry -- I used a large deep cast iron pan, but a small deep fryer will work as well.
• Use what you feel comfortable frying with.
• I happen to like a deep fry pan, but any method will work.
• About 3-4 cups of oil (vegetable) is what I used.
• Canola will also work.
• Heat to medium high, you want the oil hot - just like frying anything.
• My trick is to put the end of a wooden spoon in the oil and you should see bubbles around it.
• Simple method and it works every time.
• Add a heaping tablespoon of the mix into the oil, a few at a time -- don't over crowd the pan.
• Cook until golden brown.
• During cooking, you will need to roll the nuggets or bites over so they cook evenly.
• They don't take long 3-4 minutes is all mine took.
• Just until golden brown.
• Serve -- Enjoy with the dipping sauce.
• A spicy tomato sauce, marinara or even a spicy cheese sauce is a great dip for these bites.
• Simple and easy.
• A perfect way to get kids to eat their vegetables.