Get ready to indulge in a delightful Mediterranean treat that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece! These Olive Fritters with Tzatziki Sauce are not just a snack; they are a culinary experience bursting with flavor and texture. Imagine crispy, golden fritters made from savory olives, paired with a cool, creamy tzatziki that perfectly balances the richness of the dish. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a unique appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into this easy-to-follow guide and discover how to whip up these irresistible fritters in no time!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted olives, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dill, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 grated cucumber, 1 minced clove of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of chopped dill. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the fritters.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped pitted olives, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of water to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a thick batter forms. The batter should be smooth and hold together well. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the fritters, about 2-3 inches deep. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
- Once the oil is ready, use a spoon or a small ice cream scoop to drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to fry the fritters in batches.
- Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter until all fritters are cooked. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature throughout the frying process for even cooking.
- Once all the fritters are done, serve them warm alongside the chilled tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious olive fritters with a refreshing Greek twist!
Tips
- Choose Quality Olives: The flavor of your fritters largely depends on the quality of the olives you use. Opt for pitted kalamata or green olives for a rich taste.
- Chill the Tzatziki: Allowing the tzatziki sauce to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavors. The longer it sits, the more the ingredients meld together.
- Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: This ingredient is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture in your fritters. Make sure it's fresh for the best results.
- Temperature Check: To ensure your oil is the right temperature, use a thermometer if you have one. Ideally, it should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises, you’re good to go!
- Batch Frying: Fry the fritters in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy fritters.
- Draining Excess Oil: After frying, place the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil for a crispier finish.
- Serving Suggestions: These fritters make a fantastic appetizer or party snack. Pair them with a refreshing Greek salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
