Quick Skillet Fried Squash on Wooden Skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the squash. Slice the squash into even rounds so they cook at the same rate. Aim for slices that are not too thick, which ensures the centers become tender as the coating crisps. Pat the slices dry to help the coating adhere.
2. Mix the coating. In a shallow bowl, combine self-rising flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper. Blending the dry ingredients evenly ensures each slice gets a balanced coating. Adjust the seasoning to taste so the squash has a lightly savory finish.
3. Coat the squash slices. Toss the squash rounds in the flour-and-cornmeal mixture until each piece is lightly and evenly covered. Make sure the slices don’t clump together in the coating; a thin, even layer helps them crisp quickly.
4. Thread onto wooden skewers. Slide coated squash slices onto wooden skewers, leaving a small amount of space between each slice. This spacing helps hot oil circulate, allowing each piece to brown evenly. The skewers also make flipping and removing the squash from the pan much easier.
5. Heat the oil. Warm a skillet with enough oil to create a shallow fry. The oil should be hot enough that a pinch of the coating sizzles when added, but not so hot that the squash browns before it softens inside.
6. Fry the squash. Gently place the skewers into the hot oil. Fry until the coating turns golden and crisp, then flip the entire skewer at once. This reduces splattering and keeps all the slices together. Continue frying until both sides are evenly browned and the squash is tender.
7. Drain and serve. Lift the skewers from the oil and allow excess oil to drip off. Place them on a cooling rack or paper towels so the coating stays crisp. Serve hot while the squash is at its most flavorful and crunchy.

Serving Notes

This method gives you fried squash that’s crisp, quick, and easy to handle. The skewers make serving simple, too — bring them straight to the table or slide the slices onto a plate. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them just as they are. This clever technique keeps frying neat and produces reliably delicious results every time.