| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 145.5 | 8.5g | 1.2g | 10.5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 1.1g | 3g | 1.9g |
As a Miami dweller honoring my Cuban and Spanish roots, I’ve always been inspired by the medley of colors and vibrant flavors the Caribbean cuisine brings. One such dish that puts a tropical twist on an everyday culinary delight is the Stir Fried Pumpkin Flowers. The florid brilliance of pumpkin flowers cooked with fragrant, piquant ingredients is not just pleasing to the eye, but a party for the taste buds.
Why the Stir Fried Pumpkin Flowers Recipe is a Hit
I cherish this recipe because it fuses my love for nutritious vegetables with exotic spices and tropical tang beautifully. The fresh pumpkin flowers are given a delectable stir fry treatment. The fiery kick of red chili and the zesty notes of lime juice amalgamate the sweetness of the pumpkin flowers. As you bite into the flowers, you’d experience an array of flavors – the subtly sweet, the tangy, and mildly spicy.
This dish echoes similarities with the revered Mexican Squash Blossom Stir-Fry, but with a unique twist. With its flavors so lively and engaging, it can effortlessly accompany a heart-warming bowl of rice or even a platter of grilled meats.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
The Stir Fried Pumpkin Flowers recipe isn’t just about tantalizing the taste buds but is also a treasure trove of vital nutrients. Pumpkin flowers contain vitamins like C and A and are rich in potassium and iron. This delightful dish served on the plate is indeed a healthful calorific intake.
Furthermore, the ingredients used in this recipe not just enhance the taste, but bring several health benefits. Garlic acts as a wonder-ingredient with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative qualities, the soy sauce is a good source of savory flavor and once fermented, offers significant digestive health benefits, while chilies boost metabolism and help in weight loss. Clearly, this recipe is a great blend of taste and health!
Honestly, it’s hard not to fall in love with a recipe that’s as vivacious and beneficial as this. One taste of these Stir Fried Pumpkin Flowers and you’ll find yourself dancing between the delightful tropical flavors in an experiential gourmet journey!
What You’ll Need
- 18 fresh pumpkin flowers with stems attached
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Juice of half a lime
- A handful of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- Salt to taste
Method
Step One
Start by washing the pumpkin flowers gently under cold water. Be mindful of retaining the stems attached. Drain them on a kitchen towel and set aside.
Step Two
While the flowers are drying, heat up a wok or large frying pan on medium heat. Once heated, add the vegetable oil to the pan.
Step Three
When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped garlic and red chili. Stir-fry them for around 30 seconds to an invigorating aroma, but do not let them brown.
Step Four
Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice into the pan. Stir all the ingredients well and cook for about a minute until the sugar dissolves.
Step Five
Now, gently put the pumpkin flowers in the pan. Toss them gently in the pan to ensure all the flowers are coated with the sauce. Stir fry them for about 2-3 minutes until the flowers start to wilt. Take care not to overcook as it may make the flowers soggy.
Step Six
Taste the flowers and add salt if necessary. Turn off the heat.
Step Seven
Garnish the stir-fried flowers with roughly chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Step Eight
Enjoy your Stir Fried Pumpkin Flowers whilst hot for maximum flavour.
