Imagine a delicate, crispy golden fritter that transports you to the sun-drenched countryside of Britain, where elderflower blossoms dance in the gentle breeze. These ethereal elderflower fritters, paired with a silky smooth elderflower mousse, are not just a recipe—they're an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your culinary skills. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, this unique dessert promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary gastronomic journey that celebrates the delicate, floral essence of summer.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup elderflower blossoms
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp salt
- Oil for frying
- For Mousse: 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup elderflower cordial
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp gelatin
Instructions
- Carefully inspect and clean elderflower blossoms, gently removing any insects or debris. Ensure blossoms are completely dry before preparing batter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and create a well in the center. Crack the egg into the well and gradually whisk in sparkling water, creating a smooth, light batter with no lumps.
- For the elderflower mousse, bloom gelatin by sprinkling it over 2 tablespoons of cold water. Let sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy.
- Heat bloomed gelatin gently in microwave or over low heat until completely dissolved. Allow to cool slightly but remain liquid.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form. Gradually fold in elderflower cordial and dissolved gelatin, maintaining a light, airy texture.
- Refrigerate mousse for at least 2 hours to set properly, allowing flavors to develop and texture to become firm.
- Heat neutral frying oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan. Test temperature with a small drop of batter.
- Dip each elderflower blossom into batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully lower into hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Remove fritters with slotted spoon, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve warm fritters immediately alongside chilled elderflower mousse. Garnish with fresh elderflower blossoms or mint leaves for presentation.
Tips
- Blossom Selection: Choose fresh, fragrant elderflowers from unsprayed areas. Avoid blossoms near roadsides or polluted zones.
- Batter Consistency: Whisk the batter gently to prevent gluten development, ensuring light and crispy fritters.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent 350°F for perfect golden-brown fritters. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
- Mousse Technique: Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved but not hot when adding to whipped cream to prevent deflation.
- Serving Tip: Serve fritters immediately after frying for maximum crispiness, and keep mousse chilled until serving.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh elderflower blossoms or mint leaves add a professional touch and enhance visual appeal.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare mousse a day in advance to allow flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 85mg
