Black-Eyed Pea Fritters (Printable)

Crispy golden fritters with mashed black-eyed peas, onions, and spices. Perfect snack or appetizer.

# What You Need:

→ Legumes

01 - 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas, drained

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

→ Binders

05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

→ Seasonings

07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

→ For Frying

11 - Vegetable oil for frying

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, mash the cooked black-eyed peas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some texture for character.
02 - Add the chopped onion, garlic, parsley or cilantro, eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined and a thick batter forms.
03 - Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
04 - Scoop heaping tablespoons of the batter and gently drop them into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Do not overcrowd the pan.
05 - Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
06 - Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy preparation in just 35 minutes.
  • A great vegetarian option packed with protein from legumes.
  • Perfectly balanced texture with a crunchy crust and tender middle.
02 -
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; frying in batches ensures each fritter stays crispy and doesn't lower the oil temperature too much.
  • Use a slotted spoon to drain the fritters efficiently before placing them on paper towels.
  • Ensure the oil is heated to medium to achieve a golden-brown finish without burning the exterior.
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