| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 10 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 15.2g | 7.6g | 17.5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8.7g | 1.6g | 11.2g | 0.26g |
As a food enthusiast who loves exploring recipes that offer a burst of different flavors, the Stuffed Calabaza Flowers recipe is one of my absolute favorites. Imagine the earthy, delicate taste of Calabaza Flowers, stuffed with creamy cheese, the tangy-sweetness of fruits, and subtle notes of honey and nutmeg. This dish is a unique fusion of Louisiana and French culinary traditions that tantalize the tastebuds in the most decadent way.
A Culinary Adventure in Each Bite
The beautiful blend of flavors in the Stuffed Calabaza Flowers concoction is reminiscent of classic Creole dishes which are known for their hearty and rich ingredients, often mingled with a touch of French elegance. This recipe further brings the essence of both culinary worlds together, elevating the humble calabaza flower to gourmet heights.
And while similar to the concept of stuffed zucchini or bell peppers, the use of calabaza flowers gives it a wonderfully unique twist. Pair it with red rice and beans or a Cajun shrimp and rice to complete your Louisiana-style meal.
Nutritious and Delicious
From a health perspective, this recipe is not just high on taste but also loaded with nutrients. The calabaza flower, for instance, is packed with Vitamin C, while the creamy cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. The mix of fruits inside lends natural sweetness while also contributing fiber and various essential vitamins. The addition of spices such as nutmeg enhances the overall health quotient with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Frying these flowers can be a concern for those keeping tabs on their oil intake, but the key, as in any delightfully indulgent recipe, lies in moderation. Balancing the fried component with lots of colorful veggies on the side can keep the entire meal in harmony, bestowing a kaleidoscope of flavors and health benefits.
So whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to try something a little different, or a home cook searching for that extra special recipe to impress, Stuffed Calabaza Flowers could just be what your culinary repertoire needs!
What You’ll Need
- 12 Fresh Calabaza Flowers
- 1 cup Cream Cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped Mixed Fruits (Strawberries, Mango, Pineapple)
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup All-purpose Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 2 Eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 cups Vegetable or Canola Oil, for frying
- Powdered Sugar, for dusting (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by washing the Calabaza flowers and gently drying them using a towel or a paper napkin. Make sure to remove the pistils inside the flowers carefully.
Step Two
For the filling, in a bowl, add the softened cream cheese, finely chopped mixed fruits, honey, and nutmeg. Combine these ingredients well until you get a smooth mixture.
Step Three
Take each Calabaza flower and carefully fill them with a spoonful of the fruit and cream cheese mixture. Twist the ends of the flowers to seal them.
Step Four
Now, prepare the batter for the flowers. In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Into this dry mixture, add beaten eggs and milk, whisking constantly until you get a consistent, pourable batter without any lumps.
Step Five
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Dip each filled flower in the batter, making sure it is completely coated. Fry the flowers in the heated oil until they turn golden brown on each side. Use a slotted spoon to turn the flowers over in the oil and to remove them when done.
Step Six
Remove the fried Calabaza flowers from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove the excess oil.
Step Seven
Once drained, sprinkle the flowers with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve your stuffed Calabaza flowers warm and enjoy this sweet and savory treat.
