Basella Fritters Recipe (Malabar Spinach Fritters)
Introduction
Basella fritters, also known as Malabar spinach fritters, are a crispy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed with a variety of dips and sauces. These fritters are light, flavorful, and easy to make, making them perfect for an afternoon tea or a cozy winter snack. Malabar spinach, also known as Basella, is a unique leafy vegetable that has a tender texture and subtle earthy taste. By combining it with spices and a light batter, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into golden, crispy bites of goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these mouthwatering fritters!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basella (Malabar Spinach) | 200 grams |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1/2 cup |
| Corn flour | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Enos fruit salt (or baking powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder (for batter) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil (for frying) | As required |
| Water | 1/4 cup (or as needed) |
| Tomato Ketchup (for serving) | As required |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 340mg |
Please note that nutritional values may vary depending on the exact quantities and brand of ingredients used.
Prep and Cooking Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 10 minutes | 25 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 2 people.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- Begin by picking only the thin, tender leaves of the Basella (Malabar spinach). These are ideal for fritters as they are delicate and absorb the batter well.
- Wash the leaves thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Once washed, pat the leaves dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensuring the leaves are dry is essential, as any excess moisture can make the fritters soggy.
Step 2: Season the Spinach
- Place the cleaned and dried leaves in a bowl.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of red chilli powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and salt to taste over the leaves. Toss the leaves gently so that the spices coat them evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Fritter Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup of gram flour (besan) and 1/2 cup of corn flour. These flours will form the crispy coating for the fritters.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds (jeera), 1/2 teaspoon of Enos fruit salt (or baking powder), and 1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder into the bowl. These will add flavor and help the batter puff up while frying.
- Slowly add 1/4 cup of water (or more if needed) to the flour mixture, whisking as you go. You want the batter to be smooth and lump-free, with a semi-thick consistency. It should coat the spinach leaves evenly without dripping excessively.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
- In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat sunflower oil over medium to low flame. Ensure there is enough oil for deep frying, as the fritters should be fully submerged while cooking.
- Dip each Basella leaf into the prepared batter, ensuring it is fully coated on both sides.
- Carefully drop the battered leaf into the hot oil, frying a few leaves at a time. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the fritters until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Basella Fritters (Malabar Spinach Fritters) hot with tomato ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. These fritters pair beautifully with a spicy peanut chilli dipping sauce or tangy tamarind chutney.
- For an extra touch of comfort, enjoy these crispy bites alongside a steaming cup of adrak chai (ginger tea) on a cold winter evening!
Chef’s Tips
- Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to cling to the spinach leaves but not too thick that it forms lumps. Adjust the water accordingly to achieve the right texture.
- Crispiness: To achieve extra crispy fritters, you can double-fry them. Fry the fritters once until lightly golden, let them cool, and then fry them again until crispy and golden brown.
- Dipping Sauce Variations: While ketchup works great, you can also serve these fritters with mint chutney, spicy garlic chutney, or a yogurt dip for a more refreshing contrast.
- Storage: Fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore some of their crispiness.
Variations
- Add-On Veggies: You can mix in thin slices of onions or potatoes into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you like your fritters spicier, add finely chopped green chillies or a pinch of garam masala to the batter.
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped coriander leaves or mint to the batter for a fresh and aromatic twist.
Pairings
These fritters are perfect as a snack or appetizer and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with:
- Chai (Indian tea): Serve with adrak chai (ginger tea) for the ultimate comfort experience.
- Peanut Chilli Dipping Sauce: A spicy, nutty dip that complements the crispy texture of the fritters.
- Tamarind Chutney: A tangy and sweet chutney that balances the spicy notes of the fritters.
Cuisine and Cultural Significance
Basella, or Malabar spinach, is commonly found in South Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines. Known for its rich, green leaves and slightly mucilaginous texture, it is often used in curries and stir-fries. Fritters are a delightful way to enjoy this leafy vegetable, offering a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender leaves inside. Perfect for tea-time snacks, these fritters are reminiscent of pakoras or tempura, but with the unique flavor of Basella and a traditional Indian touch.
Conclusion
The Basella Fritters (Malabar Spinach Fritters) are a deliciously crispy and flavorful snack that highlights the versatility of leafy greens. The simple yet flavorful batter, paired with the tender spinach leaves, creates a delightful contrast of textures. Perfect for serving at gatherings, family tea times, or cozy evenings at home, this recipe will surely become a favorite for lovers of all things fried and crispy!
Enjoy the warm, golden fritters with a side of your favorite dipping sauce and a hot cup of tea, and savor every bite of this comforting treat.
