SQUASH BLOSSOM FRITTERS

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
a few grinds of black pepper
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 cup grated Parmiggiano-Reggiano
1 egg
8-9 squash blossoms, torn into thirds
1/4 cup diced mozzarella
2 thin slices ham, cut into thin strips (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying


In a large bowl stir together the flour, baking powder, pepper, salt, Parmigiano and egg and stir until well combined. Add in the squash blossoms, mozzarella and ham. Stir in enough cold water until a nice batter forms (should be the consistency of a pancake batter).

Heat about a 1/2 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Using a dinner spoon, drop a spoonful of batter into the oil to make small pancakes. Fry on both sides until golden, a few minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and season with a pinch of salt. Continue frying the remaining pancakes.

http://www.finecooking.com/item/18493/squash-blossom-fritters