Tomato Fritters Recipe: A Crispy Delight with a Touch of Basil
Introduction
Tomato fritters are a delightful, simple, and comforting dish that will become a staple in your kitchen, no matter the season. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil gives these fritters their unique and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a savory side dish, or an easy meal to prepare, these fritters fit the bill perfectly. Their crispy, golden exterior and soft, flavorful interior make them a treat that’s hard to stop at just one!
This recipe is especially versatile and easy to prepare. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh basil on hand, definitely use it for an even more vibrant, herby kick. But don’t worry—dried basil works wonderfully in a pinch. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick cooking time makes this recipe a go-to whenever you’re craving something savory and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Not applicable (as cooking time is included in the total)
- Category: Vegetable, Savory Snacks
- Servings: 5
- Yield: 10 fritters
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for these delicious tomato fritters. The ingredients are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store, and most of them you may already have in your pantry!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp |
| Canned tomatoes (drained) | 1 cup |
| Fresh tomatoes (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Dried parsley | 1 tsp |
| Egg | 1 large |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe provides a light yet filling snack or side dish, and the nutritional breakdown is as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 1.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 42.3 mg |
| Sodium | 444.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugars | 5.3 g |
| Protein | 5.3 g |
Instructions
Creating these flavorful tomato fritters is quick and easy. Just follow these simple steps to achieve crispy, golden fritters that are perfect for any occasion.
-
Prepare the Oil
Pour about 1/4 inch of oil into a large skillet or frying pan. You’ll want enough oil to allow the fritters to float a little as they cook, so ensure there’s enough for frying but not so much that the fritters are submerged. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 360°F (182°C). You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small amount of batter in—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. -
Prepare the Tomatoes
If using canned tomatoes, coarse chop them and drain out any excess liquid. Fresh tomatoes can also be used if you prefer them, but they should be chopped finely and patted dry with a paper towel to avoid too much moisture in the batter. -
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and dried basil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that there are no lumps. Set the dry mixture aside. -
Make the Tomato Mixture
In another large bowl, finely chop the onion and add it to the bowl. Crack the egg into the same bowl and beat it together with the onion. Once mixed, add the drained tomatoes and dried parsley, stirring to combine. -
Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet tomato mixture. Use a fork to gently toss and mix, ensuring that the dry ingredients coat the tomato mixture evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the batter to stay somewhat light and not too wet. If it feels too moist, add a little more flour to adjust. -
Fry the Fritters
Once the oil has reached the desired temperature, take 2 tablespoons of the fritter batter and drop it carefully into the hot oil. You should be able to fit 3-4 fritters at a time, depending on the size of your pan. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon to help them cook evenly. Fry each fritter for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. -
Drain and Serve
Once the fritters are golden and crispy on both sides, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the fritters light and crispy. Serve them warm for the best flavor, but they’re also delicious when cold.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Fritters
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you can get your hands on fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes, they’ll give the fritters a beautiful burst of flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture from ruining the batter.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and basil according to your taste. If you prefer a more herby flavor, try adding fresh basil instead of dried.
- Experiment with Flavors: Want to add a twist to your fritters? Try adding a little garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a Dipping Sauce: These fritters are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce. Try a simple yogurt-based sauce or a creamy ranch dip to complement the savory flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Tomato Fritters
Tomato fritters are not only quick and easy to make, but they’re also packed with flavor and texture. The crispy outer crust contrasts perfectly with the soft, juicy tomatoes inside, making each bite a satisfying experience. The addition of basil and parsley gives these fritters a delightful herbaceous note that elevates their flavor profile.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a healthy snack or appetizer that is both filling and nutritious. Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a main course when paired with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Variations and Substitutes
- Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to adjust the amount of flour slightly depending on the blend you choose.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want to add a cheesy twist, sprinkle in some dairy-free cheese alternatives into the batter before frying.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and ensure the flour and oil you use are vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
These tomato fritters are a versatile, simple, and crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy their crispy, savory goodness. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to disappear fast!
For more delicious and easy-to-make recipes like this, be sure to check out Love with Recipes.
