Introduction
Indulge in the delightful crunch of crispy pea fritters, a delicious treat that can make a perfect appetizer or snack. These fritters are not only easy to prepare, but they also boast a combination of flavors and textures that will please any palate. With a simple batter that binds together frozen peas, melty cheese, and a hint of garlic, these fritters will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Served with a refreshing lemon yogurt dipping sauce, they are a delightful addition to any meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Batter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornflour (cornstarch)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or 1/4 teaspoon table salt)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg (approximately 55g/2 oz)
– 2 tablespoons milk (any type, any fat percentage) or water
Add-ins
– 2 cups frozen peas (do not thaw; break up large clumps)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, colby, or any melting cheese)
– 3/4 cup finely sliced green onion (optional)
For cooking
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/8 teaspoon finely grated garlic (optional)
– Pinch of salt and pepper
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Enjoy your crispy pea fritters, complemented perfectly by the zesty lemon yogurt dipping sauce—a great option for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce:
In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, finely grated garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Make the Fritter Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the egg and milk (or water) to the dry ingredients. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
Add Peas and Cheese:
To the batter, add the frozen peas, shredded cheese, and sliced green onion (if using). Mix until the peas are evenly coated with the batter. The mixture will appear pea-heavy with minimal batter; this is expected.
Cook the Fritters:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil covers the base of the pan. Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measure, firmly pack the pea mixture. Place the packed mixture into the skillet and flatten it to about 1.25 cm (0.5 inches) thick. Repeat, spacing the fritters apart, cooking 4–5 at a time. Cook each fritter for approximately 1.5 minutes on one side until golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 1.5 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
Serve:
Serve the crispy pea fritters warm with the prepared Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce on the side.
Notes
Gluten-Free Option:
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegetable Alternatives:
Other frozen or raw diced vegetables can be used in place of peas, but they should be pre-cooked, well-drained, and cooled before adding to the batter.
Storage:
Leftover fritters can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce
Mix plain yogurt with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic (optional), salt, and pepper to create a refreshing dipping sauce.
Making the Fritter Batter
Whisk together all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Combine with egg and milk (or water) until smooth.
Adding Peas and Cheese
Incorporate frozen peas, shredded cheese, and optional green onion into the batter, ensuring even coating without thawing the peas.
Cooking the Fritters
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Use a cookie scoop or measuring cup to shape fritters and fry until golden and crispy on both sides.
Draining Excess Oil
Transfer cooked fritters onto a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil, maintaining their crispiness.
Serving the Fritters
Serve warm, accompanied by the prepared Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce.
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they should be blanched and cooled before mixing into the batter.
What can I substitute for cheese?
You can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
How can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Can I store leftover fritters?
Yes, leftover fritters can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
What other vegetables can I use?
You can use other frozen or raw diced vegetables, but they should be pre-cooked, well-drained, and cooled before adding them to the batter.
Conclusion
The crispy pea fritters are a delightful snack or appetizer that combines the sweetness of peas with the richness of cheese and the tanginess of a lemon yogurt dipping sauce. They are quick to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or as leftovers. With minimal ingredients and easy cooking methods, this recipe is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while satisfying your taste buds.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cauliflower Fritters
Substitute peas with finely grated or riced cauliflower for a low-carb variant. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
Carrot and Zucchini Fritters
Replace peas with shredded carrots and zucchini. This combination offers a colorful and nutritious option, enhancing both the texture and flavor.
Spinach and Feta Fritters
Incorporate chopped fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. Serve with a tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Sweet Potato Fritters
Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of peas for a naturally sweet and creamy fritter. Adding a hint of cinnamon can elevate the taste profile.
Broccoli and Cheddar Fritters
Mix in finely chopped broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for a hearty snack. The combination is nutritious and filling.
Herbed Zucchini Fritters
Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to a zucchini fritter base, paired with a yogurt sauce flavored with fresh herbs for added freshness.
Chickpea Fritters
Replace the batter with chickpea flour and mashed chickpeas for a protein-packed version. Spiced with cumin and coriander, these are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
