Description
Crispy manchego cheese fritters dance with tangy pomegranate beer jam, creating a Spanish-inspired appetizer that delights the senses. Creamy cheese, golden-brown crust, and sweet-tart jam invite you to savor an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) Manchego cheese, shredded
- 5 ounces (142 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 8 ounces (227 grams) fresh pomegranate arils
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 cup beer (pale lager recommended)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Seasoning and Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for finishing)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Safflower oil, for frying
Instructions
- Craft the vibrant pomegranate beer jam by combining pomegranate seeds, beer, sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer the mixture on low, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens to a glossy consistency, approximately 15 minutes.
- Remove jam from heat, allowing it to cool and further thicken while preparing the fritters.
- Heat safflower oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to precisely 350°F, using a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, creating a dry foundation for the fritters.
- Gently fold freshly grated Manchego cheese into the flour mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- In a separate bowl, vigorously beat eggs and incorporate milk, creating a smooth liquid base.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined to maintain a light, airy batter.
- Carefully drop small portions of batter into the hot oil using an ice cream scoop or two spoons.
- Fry the fritters for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, rotating to achieve an even golden-brown exterior.
- Monitor oil temperature, adjusting heat to maintain consistent 350°F for optimal frying.
- Remove fritters using a slotted spoon, placing them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Immediately season with a light sprinkle of salt while still hot.
- Plate the crispy fritters alongside the rich pomegranate beer jam, allowing guests to drizzle or dip as desired.
Notes
- Cheese Selection Flexibility: Swap Manchego with other hard, flavorful cheeses like Pecorino or aged Parmesan for diverse taste profiles.
- Temperature Control Matters: Use a digital thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature, preventing soggy or burnt fritters.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or rice flour for celiac-friendly version.
- Jam Customization: Experiment with different beer styles to create unique jam flavors, from stout’s richness to pale ale’s brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg