These crispy and golden Black Eyed Pea Fritters are a Southern favorite that burst with flavor in every bite. Made with creamy black eyed peas and fragrant spices, they are crunchy outside and soft inside, perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings. If you have ever wondered how to cook black eyed peas for a savory twist, this recipe will win your heart.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- They are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.
- Use simple pantry ingredients and cooked black eyed peas.
- Perfect for parties, side dishes, or as a main with salads.
Ingredients
- Cooked black eyed peas : provide a creamy base for the fritters
- Onion : adds sweetness and depth
- Garlic : gives a warm savory note
- Chopped parsley : adds color and freshness
- Flour : binds the fritter mix
- Egg : helps the fritters hold together
- Salt and pepper : enhance flavor
- Oil for frying : makes them crispy and golden
Step by Step Instructions
- Mash the cooked black eyed peas in a bowl until partly smooth but with some chunks left for texture.
- Add onion, garlic, parsley, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and thick enough to shape.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of the mix and drop them carefully into the oil.
- Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels before serving warm.
Mistakes To Avoid
When making these black eyed pea fritters, you want them crispy but never greasy. Here are key things to keep in mind for the perfect batch.
- Do not skip draining excess water from cooked black eyed peas. Too much moisture can make your fritters fall apart.
- Avoid frying on very high heat. This burns the outside before the inside cooks properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fritters with a side of tangy sauce, fresh salad, or alongside collard greens. Try pairing them with this comforting black eyed peas with smoked turkey legs dish for a soul food inspired meal. For a quick Southern dinner, combine them with Spanish rice and beans or serve with a fresh black eyed peas salad for a balanced plate. If you have frozen peas, check out this quick frozen black eyed peas recipe to save prep time.
Black Eyed Pea Fritters
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Fritter Base
- 2 cups cooked black eyed peas drained and partly mashed
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
For Frying
- oil for frying
Instructions
- Mash the cooked black eyed peas in a bowl until partly smooth but with some chunks left for texture.
- Add onion, garlic, parsley, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and thick enough to shape.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of the mix and drop them carefully into the oil.
- Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels before serving warm.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use canned black eyed peas for this recipe?
Yes, canned black eyed peas work perfectly. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before mashing. This removes extra salt and keeps the fritter texture balanced. You can also use leftover peas from a blackeyed peas recipe southern style if you already have some cooked.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a lighter version. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, brush the fritters lightly with oil, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be less crispy but still flavorful. Pair them with a warm bowl of blackeyed pea soup or collard green soup recipe for a hearty meal.
How long can I store these fritters?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to keep the crispiness. They also freeze well for future use. Serve with black eyed pea dip for a quick snack during busy weeks or even for New Years black eyed peas celebrations.
Conclusion
These Black Eyed Pea Fritters are crunchy, golden, and packed with bold flavor. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or pair them with your favorite sides, they bring a touch of Southern comfort to your table. Save this black eyed pea fritters recipe to your Pinterest board and share it with your friends for your next cozy weekend cook.
