Black pudding, a staple in British and Irish cuisine, is cherished for its rich flavour and versatility. If you're a fan of this traditional sausage and are looking for a new way to enjoy it, these black pudding fritters are a must-try. Air frying makes them much healthier compared to deep frying, while still delivering that delightful crispiness. In this article, we'll guide you through a delicious and easy-to-make black pudding fritters recipe perfect for air frying.
Ingredients
- 200g black pudding, cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg
- 75g plain flour
- 100ml milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray or a light neutral oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and smoked paprika. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the egg in a separate bowl and then gradually incorporate the milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Coat the Black Pudding: Add the pieces of black pudding into the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated. The batter should cling nicely to the black pudding, forming a thick layer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (approximately 390°F). This typically takes around 3-5 minutes depending on the model.
- Fry the Fritters: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking. Place the battered black pudding pieces into the basket, making sure they do not touch each other. Fry for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the fritters from the air fryer. They should be golden and crispy on the outside, with the luscious black pudding inside. Serve immediately with a side of apple sauce or a tangy malt vinegar dip to balance the richness.
Image: Preparing the Batter
Image: Air Frying the Fritters
Image: Finished Black Pudding Fritters
Tips for Perfect Black Pudding Fritters
- Choosing Black Pudding: Opt for a high-quality black pudding with a good balance of oats, spices, and blood for the best flavour and texture.
- Test the Batter: For a crispier texture, you can test-fry a small fritter to ensure the batter is seasoned to your liking. Feel free to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
- Customise Your Fritters: Consider adding a touch of chilli powder for heat or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an aromatic twist.
Conclusion
Black pudding fritters are a delightful reinventing of a classic dish, allowing you to enjoy the beloved flavours of black pudding in a new form. With the help of an air fryer, these fritters are easy and quick to prepare, making them ideal for a midweek dinner, a hearty brunch, or a gourmet snack. Experiment with this recipe, and enjoy the beautiful combination of crispiness and flavour that only black pudding can deliver. Happy cooking!