American Fried Bites 2

Ingredients

• 400 gvegetables — sliced
• 100 gflour
• for fryingoil
• lemon — to serve
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Start by washing and drying 400 g of vegetables thoroughly. Choose a mix of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 100 g of flour with a generous pinch of fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss the vegetable pieces in the flour mixture until they are well-coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when fried.
3. Select a deep, heavy-bottomed pan or pot suitable for frying, such as a cast-iron skillet or a Dutch oven. Pour in enough frying oil to submerge the vegetables halfway, approximately 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C), or until a small piece of bread dropped in sizzles and turns golden in about 15 seconds.
4. Carefully add the floured vegetables to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry them, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, which should take about 3-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried vegetables to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Once all the vegetables are fried, transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness and enhance the flavor. Finish with a final sprinkle of fine sea salt to taste, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned. Serve immediately while the bites are hot and crispy, inviting everyone to share and enjoy.