Spinach Fritters Recipe

When I’m craving something crispy and delicious, these spinach fritters, packed with flavor and a hint of spice, are my go-to snack for a quick culinary adventure in my kitchen!

These spinach fritters are one of my favorite things to eat. They are delicious, the fresh spinach, cumin seeds, and a pinch of heat from red chili powder make a dynamite flavor combination.

Chickpea flour means they’re not just tasty but also packed with protein, making these a seriously healthy snack. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, a combination that is hard to beat.

Spinach Fritters Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Spinach: Rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K; adds vibrant color.
• Chickpea Flour: High in protein and fiber; creates a crispy texture.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; contains antioxidants.
• Cumin Seeds: Offers a warm, earthy flavor; aids digestion.
• Red Chili Powder: Adds heat and spice; high in vitamin C.
• Turmeric Powder: Known for anti-inflammatory properties; provides a golden hue.

Spinach Fritters Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as besan or gram flour)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

How to Make this Spinach Fritters Recipe

1. In a sizeable mixing bowl, mix well the very finely chopped spinach and chickpea flour.

2. Into the bowl, add the chopped onion, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Blend thoroughly.

3. Slowly pour in the water and stir to combine.
The mixing and pouring should be done in such a way as to ensure that each of the ingredients sharing the bowl and the paddle are thoroughly mixed before proceeding to the next step. Water, of course, is an important ingredient, so don’t rush it. Pour it in steadily.

4. Warm oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.

5. To determine if the oil is hot enough for frying, test it by adding a tiny amount of batter. If it sizzles and comes to the surface, the temperature is just right.

6. Use a spoon or your hands to scoop the batter and drop small amounts into the hot oil.

7. Cook the fritters in batches, taking care not to crowd the pan. Too many fritters in the pan at once can lower the oil temperature.

8. For about 3-4 minutes on each side, fry the fritters, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

9. To remove the fritters from the oil, use a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. This will remove the excess oil from the fritters, leaving you with the end product.

10. Enjoy the spinach fritters as they come, served hot, with your choice of chutney or dipping sauce. That’s what makes them the perfect little fritters.

Spinach Fritters Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Chopping board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Deep skillet or frying pan
7. Slotted spoon
8. Paper towels
9. Spoon (for dropping batter)
10. Spatula or tongs (optional for turning fritters)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?A: Absolutely, frozen spinach is a great option. Just be sure to thaw and drain it completely before incorporating it in order to bypass the problem of added moisture in the batter.
• Q: Is there a gluten-free alternative to chickpea flour?Chickpea flour is a naturally gluten-free food, making it an excellent choice for gluten-free cooking.
• Q: What type of oil is best for frying the fritters?A neutral oil with a high smoke point—like canola or vegetable oil—is ideal for deep-frying.
• Q: Can I bake the fritters instead of frying?A. Yes, they can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes, with a turn halfway, to a state of golden crispness.
• Q: How do I store leftover fritters?A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to keep them crisp.
• Q: Are there other spices I can add to the batter?A: For sure! You can definitely add some spices, like coriander powder, garam masala, or fresh grated ginger, for extra taste. There’s a world of spices out there for you to explore!

Spinach Fritters Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Kale and Swiss chard are good substitutes for spinach. They bring their own distinctive flavors and textures to dishes in which you use these greens.
Chickpea flour: For a different texture and taste, use all-purpose flour or rice flour.
Cumin seeds: Use ground cumin or coriander seeds for a similarly earthy taste.
Cayenne pepper or paprika: Substitute for red chili powder to create a desired taste. Adjust for voltage.
Powdered turmeric: For a different aromatic profile, saffron or curry powder can be used.

Pro Tips

1. Preheat Oil Properly Before you start frying, ensure the oil is properly preheated to about 350°F (175°C). This ensures the fritters cook evenly and become crispy without absorbing too much oil. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy, or test with a small drop of batter.

2. Consistent Batter Thickness When mixing the water into the batter, adjust the amount slightly if needed. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil, but not too thick that it becomes dry once fried.

3. Mix Spinach Last If the spinach releases too much moisture, you may need to adjust the water content accordingly. Add the spinach just before frying to minimize moisture impacting the batter consistency.

4. Cooling Rack for Draining Instead of using paper towels, consider draining the fritters on a cooling rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows air circulation on all sides and prevents them from becoming soggy.

5. Flavor Enhancements For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of garam masala or a squeeze of lemon juice to the batter. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also add a fresh burst of flavor.