Pampoenkoekies (South African Pumpkin Fritters)

🧂 Ingredients

• 2 cups Pumpkin puree(Ensure it's unsweetened and well-drained if homemade. Canned pumpkin puree works well.)
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 Large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar(Optional, for a sweeter batter. Adjust to taste.)
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder(For a lighter, fluffier fritter.)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon(Plus more for dusting.)
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• for frying Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(About 2-3 inches deep in the pot.)
• for dusting Cinnamon sugar(Mix equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar (if using), baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then whisk in the pumpkin puree until well combined and smooth.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are okay. The batter should be thick but scoopable.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
3. 3

   Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of batter in; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
4. 4

   Fry the fritters: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to turn them and to remove them from the oil.

   ⏱️ 15-20 minutes
5. 5

   Drain and dust: Transfer the cooked pampoenkoekies to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, generously dust them with the prepared cinnamon sugar.

   ⏱️ 3 minutes
6. 6

   Serve: Pampoenkoekies are best served warm, either on their own or with a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For a lighter fritter, ensure your baking powder is fresh.
• ✓Don't overcrowd the pot when frying; this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy fritters.
• ✓Adjust the amount of cinnamon in the batter and dusting to your preference.
• ✓These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two and reheated gently.

🔄 Variations

• Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for an extra spice kick.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
• For a savory twist, omit the sugar in the batter and serve with a side of chutney.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving