This crispy potato delight is an irresistible snack or side dish that will have your neighbors asking for the recipe! Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, semolina, and fresh herbs, these crispy bites are packed with flavor. The combination of soft potatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh coriander and parsley creates a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve them hot and enjoy the crunchy exterior and tender interior of these delightful potato snacks.
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 glasses of water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- A bunch of coriander and parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1.5 cups semolina
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
- Boil the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, bring the 2 glasses of water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are soft and tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth. You can use a potato masher or fork for this.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped coriander, and parsley to the mashed potatoes. Mix well.
- Stir in the chili flakes (if using) and salt to taste.
- Gradually add the semolina to the potato mixture, mixing until a thick, dough-like consistency forms.
- Shape the Potato Mixture:
- Take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into small patties or balls, depending on your preference.
- Fry the Patties:
- In a large frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the potato patties or balls into the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy potato delights hot, garnished with extra chopped herbs if desired. They are perfect on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Cooking Tips
- Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and well-mashed for the best texture.
- Semolina: Gradually add the semolina to achieve the right consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Frying: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: A good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
- Garlic: Adds flavor and is known for its health benefits, including boosting immunity.
- Fresh Herbs: Coriander and parsley are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- It can be made gluten-free by substituting the semolina with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornmeal.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
- Protein: 4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a frying pan or oven until warmed through and crispy again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The perfect combination of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a burst of fresh herb flavor.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
- Versatile: Serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish—these potato delights are always a hit!
Conclusion
This crispy potato delight is a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavor, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or side, these crispy potato bites will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the delightful crunch and savory taste of this easy-to-make recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake these instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor profile, but the texture may vary slightly.
- How do I make them spicier?
- Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for extra heat.
- Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to fry.
- What dipping sauce goes well with this dish?
- These crispy delights pair well with yogurt-based dips, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
- Can I freeze the patties?
- Yes, you can freeze the shaped patties before frying. Thaw them in the refrigerator before frying.
- How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
- Ensure the mixture is thick enough by adding enough semolina, and handle them gently when frying.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, grated carrots or finely chopped spinach can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- How do I keep the patties warm before serving?
- Keep them in a warm oven (about 100°C/200°F) until ready to serve.
- Can I make these without onions?
- Yes, you can omit the onions if you prefer or substitute them with other vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers.