Black-eyed pea fritters are a delightful dish that combines crispy goodness with the earthy flavors of black-eyed peas. Perfect for a snack or as an appetizer, these fritters are both satisfying and easy to make. The addition of cumin and garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste that will leave you wanting more. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
Why Make This Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
Black-eyed pea fritters are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. They incorporate healthy ingredients like black-eyed peas, which are rich in protein and fiber. This makes the fritters a wholesome choice compared to typical fried snacks. They’re easy to prepare, and the warm, crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy ranch dressing served on the side. Perfect for a game day snack or family gathering, these fritters will surely impress your guests!
How to Make Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
- Ranch dressing for serving
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large bowl, mash the cooked black-eyed peas slightly with a fork. This will help bind the fritters without turning them into a puree.
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Step 2: Mixing
Stir in the cornmeal, flour, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and egg until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick but slightly sticky, allowing it to hold shape when fried.
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Step 3: Cooking
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil. Fry each fritter until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, carefully drain the fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them warm with ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
These fritters are best served hot and fresh, making them perfect for a party or as a snack. Pair them with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick. They also make a great addition to a picnic or a casual lunch along with a light salad.
How to Store Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
If you have leftover fritters, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method will help them regain some of their crispiness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s not hot enough, the fritters can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- For a lighter version, bake the fritters in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Experiment with spices! Try adding cayenne pepper for some heat or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Fritters: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Cheesy Fritters: Mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a richer flavor.
- Vegetable Fritters: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use canned black-eyed peas?
Yes, canned black-eyed peas work great. Just drain and rinse them before using. -
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. -
What’s a good substitute for cornmeal?
You can use finely ground oats or breadcrumbs as a gluten-free alternative. -
Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be reheated directly from frozen. -
What can I serve with these fritters?
Besides ranch dressing, try serving them with hot sauce, avocado dip, or a yogurt-based sauce.
Conclusion
Black-eyed pea fritters are a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to whip up any day of the week. With their crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful filling, they make for a great snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you! Give them a go and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in every bite!
Print
Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy black-eyed pea fritters infused with garlic and cumin, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
- Ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mash the cooked black-eyed peas slightly with a fork.
- Stir in the cornmeal, flour, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and egg until well combined.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with ranch dressing on the side.
Notes
For a healthier version, bake the fritters at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
