Breadfruit Fritters
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these savory fritters are made from grated breadfruit, seasoned with local spices, and fried to golden perfection. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Breadfruit(peeled, cored, and grated (about 4 cups))
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/4 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced, seeds removed for less heat (optional))
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour(plus more if needed)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 3-4 cups Vegetable oil(for deep frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel, core, and grate the breadfruit. If using fresh breadfruit, you can boil it until tender first, then grate. If using a firm, raw breadfruit, grate it raw.
💡 Tip: Ensure the breadfruit is not overly ripe for the best texture. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the grated breadfruit, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using), chopped parsley, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 3
Add a little water, a tablespoon at a time, if the mixture seems too dry, until it holds together when squeezed but is not wet. The consistency should be like a thick batter or moist dough.
- 4
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
💡 Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even frying. - 5
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the breadfruit mixture into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in batches.
- 6
Fry the fritters for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat as needed to maintain oil temperature and prevent burning. - 7
Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the scotch bonnet pepper.
- ✓If breadfruit is not available, green bananas or plantains can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the fritters from absorbing too much oil.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded cheese (like cheddar) to the mixture for cheesy breadfruit fritters.
- Incorporate finely chopped saltfish into the batter for a savory seafood twist.