Black Pudding Fritters: A Taste of Scotland
This recipe brings you a delectable taste of Scotland with its traditional black pudding fritters. These crispy, savory delights are perfect as a starter, a snack, or even a hearty addition to a full Scottish breakfast.
Ingredients:
For the Fritters:
- 400g good quality black pudding, sliced into 1cm thick rounds
- 100g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 150ml milk or sparkling water (for extra lightness)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Serving (optional):
- Brown sauce or HP sauce
- Fried or poached egg
- Salad greens
Instructions for cooking Black Pudding Fritters
1. Prepare the Black Pudding: Gently remove the casing from the black pudding slices if desired, or leave it on for a more rustic feel. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel – this helps them crisp up nicely. Cut each slice into quarters or smaller, bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg. Gradually whisk in the milk or sparkling water until you achieve a smooth batter, avoiding lumps. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter – slightly thick but pourable.
3. Combine Batter and Black Pudding: Gently fold the black pudding pieces into the batter, making sure they are evenly coated. Don’t overmix – a few uncoated pieces are fine.
4. Fry the Fritters: Heat about 2cm of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of batter should sizzle immediately), carefully add spoonfuls of the black pudding batter to the pan, leaving some space between each fritter.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the fritters are golden brown and crispy on both sides, and the black pudding is heated through. Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your black pudding fritters immediately. A dollop of brown sauce or HP sauce adds a delightful tang. For a heartier dish, serve them alongside a fried or poached egg and some fresh salad greens. The contrasting flavors and textures create a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality black pudding for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy fritters. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your fritters and the heat of your stove.
- Experiment with different seasonings – a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped herbs can add extra flavor.
Enjoy these delicious and authentic Scottish black pudding fritters! They’re a true testament to the hearty and flavorful cuisine of Scotland.