RecipesPapua New GuineaAibika Fritters with Galip Nut Relish

Aibika Fritters with Galip Nut Relish

Crispy, savory fritters made from the nutritious Aibika leaf, complemented by a sweet and tangy relish featuring the unique Galip nut. This dish highlights the use of indigenous ingredients in a modern culinary context.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Aibika Fritters with Galip Nut Relish - Papua New Guinea traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 200 g Aibika leaves(young, tender leaves, finely chopped)
  • 1 medium Sweet potato(peeled and grated)
  • 0.5 medium Red onion(finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 large Egg
  • 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper
  • 4 tbsp Cooking oil(for frying)
  • 50 g Galip nuts(roasted and roughly chopped)
  • 0.5 cup Pineapple(finely diced)
  • 2 tbsp Lime juice
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger(grated)
  • 2 tbsp Coriander(fresh, chopped)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the fritter batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potato, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, Aibika leaves, egg, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the Aibika leaves are finely chopped to avoid large pieces in the fritters.
  2. 2

    Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop about 1/4 cup of the fritter mixture and carefully place it into the skillet. Flatten gently with a spatula to form a patty. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

    💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  3. 3

    Remove the cooked fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter.

    💡 Tip: Keep cooked fritters warm in a low oven while you finish the batch.
  4. 4

    Prepare the Galip nut relish: In a small bowl, combine the roasted and chopped Galip nuts, finely diced pineapple, lime juice, honey, grated fresh ginger, and chopped coriander. Stir well to combine.

    💡 Tip: Adjust sweetness and tanginess by adding more honey or lime juice to your preference.
  5. 5

    Serve the hot Aibika fritters immediately, topped with a generous spoonful of the Galip nut relish.

    💡 Tip: These fritters are best enjoyed fresh.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Aibika leaves can be slightly slimy; ensure they are well-chopped and mixed thoroughly with the other ingredients.
  • Galip nuts can be substituted with roasted almonds or cashews if unavailable, but the unique flavor will be different.
  • For a spicier relish, add a pinch of chili flakes.

🔄 Variations

  • Add finely chopped chili to the fritter batter for a spicy kick.
  • Serve with a side of coconut cream or a yogurt-based dip.

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