Loroco Relleno
A popular appetizer or side dish, these are fried fritters made with loroco flowers, a unique edible flower native to Central America, mixed with a savory dough.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Loroco flowers(fresh or preserved, rinsed and roughly chopped)
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Water(or as needed to form a thick batter)
- for frying Vegetable oil
- 0.5 cup Queso Fresco(crumbled (optional, for filling))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh loroco flowers, rinse them thoroughly and roughly chop. If using preserved loroco, drain and rinse.
💡 Tip: Ensure loroco is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter. - 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
💡 Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can help create a lighter fritter. - 3
Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, whisking until a thick, smooth batter forms. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not too stiff. Stir in the chopped loroco flowers. If using, gently fold in the crumbled queso fresco.
💡 Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in tough fritters. - 4
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even frying. - 5
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
⏱️ 5 minutes💡 Tip: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. - 6
Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Loroco flowers have a unique, slightly floral and herbaceous flavor. If you can't find them, this dish cannot be authentically replicated.
- ✓The batter should be thick enough so that the loroco doesn't sink to the bottom.
- ✓Serve with a side of curtido or a simple tomato salsa.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped jalapeño to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate a small amount of finely grated cheese (like mozzarella or a mild Salvadoran cheese) into the batter.