Recipe: Charlie’s Pompano Beach Conch Fritters
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: 183.2
Fat Content: 2.7g
Saturated Fat Content: 0.8g
Cholesterol Content: 101.1mg
Sodium Content: 555.4mg
Carbohydrate Content: 27.5g
Fiber Content: 1.6g
Sugar Content: 2g
Protein Content: 12.7g
Servings: Approximately 30 fritters
Keywords: High In…, < 30 Mins
Description:
Indulge in the savory delight of Charlie’s Pompano Beach Conch Fritters – a recipe meticulously refined over several years, hailed as the best in South Florida. Savor the tropical essence and the crispy perfection of these fritters that will transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked beaches of Florida.
Ingredients:
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon celery seed
- 1 tablespoon habanero sauce (e.g., Melindas)
- 3/4 tablespoon salt (Not More! At least initially!)
- 1/2 tablespoon basil
- 1/2 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Begin by preparing a flavorful spice blend: In a bowl, combine thyme, parsley, oregano, celery seed, habanero sauce, salt, basil, cumin powder, and black pepper. Set aside.
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Tenderize the conch: Pound the conch with a rolling pin until flattened, especially the thick and hard “foot.” Dice the conch into small, bite-sized pieces.
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Create the conch mixture: Mix lime juice and tomato paste with the diced conch in a small bowl.
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Prepare the vegetable mix: In a separate large bowl, dice the yellow bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Add the prepared spice blend and mix well.
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Combine the ingredients: Incorporate the conch mixture into the vegetable mix. Stir in flour, baking powder, and eggs until a thick batter forms. The consistency should be such that a spoonful of the mixture turns upside down and sticks for a few seconds.
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Adjust consistency: If the batter is too thin, add more flour. If it’s too thick, incorporate a little milk. Alternatively, you can substitute a bit of beer for the milk if desired.
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Heat the oil: In a pot, heat about 2 inches of cooking oil over medium heat. Stir occasionally. Ensure not to heat too quickly to prevent burning.
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Fry the fritters: Use a teaspoon to scoop up 1 tablespoon of the fritter mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, then flip it over using a fork. Cook the other side until lightly browned.
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Drain and adjust seasonings: Use a scooper to lift the fritters out of the oil and let them drain on a napkin-covered plate. Allow them to cool a bit before tasting. Adjust the seasonings in the remaining batter according to your taste.
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Serve and savor: Serve the conch fritters with lemon or lime wedges, extra habanero sauce, and refreshing cold beverages. Exercise caution when dealing with hot oil, especially if enjoying some drinks.
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Enjoy responsibly: Remember, excessive alcohol consumption and handling hot oil do not mix. Relish the delightful flavors of these fritters with care.
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Insider’s tip: If you’re in Florida and not in the mood to cook, Charlie recommends trying the Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar in Pompano for an equally delightful conch fritter experience.
Conclusion:
Embark on a culinary journey with Charlie’s Pompano Beach Conch Fritters, an outstanding recipe perfected over time. Delight your senses with the burst of flavors, and share this exceptional dish with friends and family. Enjoy the tropical essence of Florida right in your own home! 🌴🍤🔥
