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Caribbean Crispy Fritters

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer vegetarian, Appetizers

Caribbean Crispy Fritters

Caribbean Crispy Fritters are a staple at home tables across the islands, where cooks rely on hand-measured salt and a generous use of oil to achieve their signature crispiness. This dish reflects the way Caribbean families truly prepare it, with an emphasis on sharing and simplicity.

The fritters are made from zucchini, eggs, and flour, seasoned with fine sea salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs. When fried, they develop a golden crust that contrasts with a tender interior, offering a satisfying bite that's both savory and fresh. These fritters are a beloved part of the Caribbean culinary landscape, enjoyed for their comforting flavors and communal nature.

Ingredients

  • 3zucchini — grated
  • 2eggs
  • 4 tbspflour
  • for fryingoil
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by grating the 3 zucchini using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure the fritters become crispy rather than soggy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 2 eggs and beat them lightly with a fork. Add the squeezed zucchini to the bowl, followed by 4 tablespoons of flour. Mix until the flour is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
  3. Chop a selection of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, and add them to the zucchini mixture. Season generously with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. The herbs and seasoning will infuse the fritters with a vibrant Caribbean flavor.
  4. Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be enough to coat the bottom of the pan and allow the fritters to fry evenly. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.
  5. Spoon the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening each spoonful slightly with the back of the spoon to form a fritter. Fry the fritters in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until the edges begin to turn golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  6. Once the fritters are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain their crispiness.
  7. Finish the fritters with a light sprinkle of fine sea salt while they are still hot. Serve immediately, as Caribbean Crispy Fritters are best enjoyed fresh, with their exterior crunchy and the inside tender.
Cover of Authentic Caribbean Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Caribbean Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Caribbean Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Caribbean volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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