Classic Spanish Potato Fritters, also known as “Tortillitas de Patata,” are a crispy, golden delight. These fritters are made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and eggs, seasoned to perfection. A staple in Spanish cuisine, they are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Their crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make them irresistible for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- Potatoes: 3 medium (about 500 g), peeled and grated
- Onion: 1 medium (about 150 g), finely chopped
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten
- All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup (60 g)
- Garlic (optional): 2 cloves, minced
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Olive Oil: For frying
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes and Onions:
- Grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Combine the potatoes with the chopped onion in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Batter:
- Add the eggs, flour, garlic (if using), parsley, salt, and black pepper to the potato-onion mixture.
- Stir until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat a generous layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Form and Fry the Fritters:
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into small patties.
- Place the patties into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic aioli or a tangy lemon yogurt sauce.
- Pair with a simple side salad for a light meal.
- Add as a topping to sandwiches or burgers for extra crunch.
- Enjoy as part of a tapas spread with other Spanish dishes.
- Serve alongside fried eggs for a hearty breakfast.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture and crispiness.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to ensure crispy fritters.
- Keep the oil temperature consistent to prevent soggy fritters.
- Add a pinch of paprika for a smoky Spanish flavor.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: A great source of potassium and dietary fiber.
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that promotes heart health.
- Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and vitamin C.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No, but can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Vegan: No, contains eggs (substitute with flax eggs for a vegan version).
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden fritters with a soft, flavorful interior.
- Easy to make with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
- Versatile snack or side dish that pairs well with various dips and accompaniments.
- A perfect introduction to classic Spanish cuisine.
- Great for meal prepping, as they store and reheat beautifully.
Conclusion
Classic Spanish Potato Fritters are a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. Their crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful filling make them a hit at any table. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side, or part of a tapas spread, these fritters bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen. Try them today for a crowd-pleasing treat!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake these fritters instead of frying? Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- What can I use instead of flour? Cornstarch or gluten-free flour can be used as substitutes.
- Do I have to peel the potatoes? Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, grated zucchini, sweet potato, or bell peppers work well in this recipe.
- How do I keep the fritters crispy? Serve immediately after frying or reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- What dipping sauces pair well with these fritters? Garlic aioli, sour cream, or a spicy tomato sauce are great options.
- Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. Stir before frying.
- Are these fritters spicy? No, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze and reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.
- What type of onion works best? Yellow or white onions are ideal for their mild flavor.
Enjoy making and savoring these crispy Spanish delights! 🥔✨