Split Pea Fritters

These are really very simple to make, with only a few cheap ingredients - they make great party food. The knack is forming them in to balls, insure your hands are damp and firmly press in the palm of your hand - if your having problems add a small egg to the mix, it’s better than glue.

Preparation time: 20 - 25 minutes   Quantity: Makes 16   Cooking time: 5 - 10 minutes

Ingredients

250g / 8 oz / 1/2 bag yellow split peas
1 red chilli - finely chopped with seeds
2 onions - finely diced
1 level teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
seasoning
oil to fry

Variations - omit the chilli, or not and add 2 inch / 5 cm fresh grated ginger

Method

  • Soak the peas over night in cold water, allowing a few inches above the top for swelling
  • Drain and wash
  • In a processor blend the chilli until finely minced
  • Add the onion and blend until just mixed, in small pieces but not mushy
  • Spoon the onions and chilli in to a bowl
  • Blend the lentils in the unwashed processor and blend until well mixed and mashed
  • Mix them in to the onions and add the turmeric
  • Season very well
  • With damp hands mould the mix in to small balls the size of a soup spoon and flatted slightly in the palm of your hands (a bit like falafel's)
  • Deep fry in hot oil until golden
  • Drain on kitchen towel and serve