Buttermilk-Fried Ramps

Crispy, Southern-style fried ramps coated in seasoned buttermilk batter. This seasonal delicacy transforms wild ramps into a delicious appetizer with a spicy kick from cayenne pepper.

4 servings
25 min

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ramp greens (2 handfuls)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 whole lemon

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Trim greens from 8 ounces ramps (2 handfuls); reserve for another use. Place 2 cups buttermilk in a shallow dish. Combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper in another shallow dish. Coat ramps in flour mixture, then buttermilk, then flour mixture again.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Pour vegetable oil into a large pot to a depth of 2"; heat over medium-high until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350°. Fry ramps until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels; season with salt. Serve with lemon wedges.

    15 min