These crispy potato and vegetable fritters are a fun and inventive snack made using a simple plastic bottle. The mashed potatoes are combined with a medley of finely chopped vegetables and cornstarch, then shaped into easy-to-fry pieces. The result is a golden-brown, crispy fritter with a soft, flavorful interior.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500g potatoes
- Water (for boiling)
- 15g cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower)
- 40g chopped carrots (finely diced)
- 12g chopped green onions (finely sliced)
- 15g chopped celery (finely diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 75g cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Equipment:
- Empty, clean plastic bottle (preferably with a narrow neck)
Directions:
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes and place them in a pot.
- Pour enough water into the pot to cover the potatoes.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Peel the potatoes and mash them until smooth.
-
Add Oil and Vegetables:
- Add 15g of cooking oil to the mashed potatoes and mix until smooth.
- Add the finely chopped carrots, green onions, and celery to the mashed potatoes.
- Add the salt and mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
-
Add Cornstarch:
- Add the cornstarch to the potato mixture and mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape.
-
Fill the Bottle:
- Transfer the potato mixture into the empty plastic bottle.
- Use a spoon or spatula to pack the mixture tightly into the bottle.
-
Shape the Fritters:
- Using scissors or a sharp knife, cut the plastic bottle horizontally into pieces, creating cylinders of the potato mixture.
- Carefully remove the potato cylinders from the plastic bottle pieces.
-
Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the potato cylinders into the hot oil.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Turn the fritters over to ensure even cooking.
- Once the fritters are brownish yellow and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon or spatula.
- Place the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the crispy potato and vegetable fritters hot.
Nutritional Facts: (Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 200-300 kcal
- Protein: 3-5g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sodium: 200-400mg
Tips:
- Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly cooked and mashed for a smooth texture.
- Finely dice the vegetables for even distribution in the fritters.
- Pack the potato mixture tightly into the plastic bottle to create firm cylinders.
- Use medium heat to prevent the fritters from burning.
- Drain the cooked fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers, peas, or corn.
- Add herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or chili flakes.
- Add grated cheese to the potato mixture.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, or sweet chili sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or appetizer.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.
- Serve with dipping sauces.
- Pack them for a picnic or lunchbox.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of starch?
- Potato starch or tapioca starch can be used instead of cornstarch.
- Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Shape and fry the fritters just before serving.
- How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?
- Ensure the potato mixture is thick and well combined with the cornstarch.
- Can I freeze leftover fritters?
- Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet.
- Can I add meat to the mixture?
- Yes, you can add cooked ground meat, such as beef, pork, or chicken, to the potato mixture.
- How do I store leftover fritters?
- Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.