Baked "Fried" Breaded Eggplant is a delightful dish that reimagines the classic comfort of traditional fried eggplant without the excess oil. To prepare, slices of fresh eggplant are first dusted in flour, then dipped into a lightly beaten egg, and finally coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant herbs. They are then arranged on a baking tray and lightly spritzed with olive oil to achieve a golden, crisp exterior.

As they bake in the oven, the eggplant softens to a tender, creamy texture while the breadcrumb coating turns irresistibly crunchy. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main, this dish pairs wonderfully with a tangy tomato sauce or a fresh salad. Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a truly delectable and wholesome meal.

Fried artichoke hearts are a delightful treat that epitomise the charm of Mediterranean cuisine. These tender morsels are typically marinated in olive oil and herbs before being lightly battered and fried to a crisp golden perfection. The exterior crackles enticingly while the inside remains succulent and flavourful. Often served as a tantalising starter or as part of a sharing platter, they are accompanied by a zesty dipping sauce, perhaps a homemade aioli or a sharp lemon vinaigrette. Each bite offers a pleasing contrast of textures and a burst of earthy, nutty flavours, making fried artichoke hearts a popular choice for any food lover looking to indulge in something a little different.

Nestled in a charming bistro setting, the Perfect Crispy Fried Calamari Appetiser is a true delight for seafood lovers. Each tender ring of calamari is expertly coated in a light, seasoned batter that crisps to golden perfection upon frying. As you take your first bite, the satisfying crunch gives way to succulent morsels of the sea, delicately flavoured with a hint of fresh lemon and a touch of garlic. Accompanied by a zesty aioli for dipping, this appetiser is not just a prelude to your meal; it’s an experience that elevates the evening with its tantalising textures and harmonious flavours. Whether shared among friends or savoured solo, these perfectly fried calamari rings are sure to make a lasting impression.

Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls

Indulge in the delightful fusion of textures and flavours with Carolyn's Cheesy Fried Colcannon Balls. This scrumptious dish takes the traditional Irish colcannon—a hearty mix of mashed potatoes and finely shredded greens—and gives it a glorious twist. Each ball is generously filled with a melting centre of creamy cheese, then rolled in breadcrumbs and crisped to a perfect golden brown.

Serve them piping hot as a tantalising starter or a comforting side dish, paired with a dollop of tangy crème fraîche. The combination of the fluffy potato and vibrant kale, edged with a crisp exterior, creates an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for any gathering or simply as a comforting indulgence on a chilly evening, these cheesy colcannon balls are sure to bring a touch of Irish charm to your table.

Crispy Fried Lentil Patties Recipe

These delightful crispy fried lentil patties, also known as lentil fritters or “dal ke bhajiye,” are a perfect vegetarian snack or a light meal option. With their golden-brown exterior and soft, flavourful interior, they’re sure to impress both family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

• 200g red lentils (masoor dal), soaked for 2 hours
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 100g breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Method:

1. Begin by draining the soaked lentils and rinsing them well. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse paste. Be careful not to over-blend; a bit of texture is desired.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the lentil paste with the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, green chilli, coriander, cumin seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat patties. Once formed, coat each patty lightly in breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.

4. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Fry until they are golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Remove the patties from the oil and drain on kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with a tangy chutney or a cooling yoghurt dip for a delightful treat.

Enjoy the crispiness and robust flavours of these lentil patties – perfect for a cosy gathering or simply as a tasty snack!

Crispy fried onions are a beloved addition to many British dishes, imparting a delightful crunch and a rich, savoury flavour. Often used as a topping for casseroles and pies, these golden morsels enhance everything from the iconic roast dinner to a comforting bowl of soup. Their preparation is simple yet transformative: thinly sliced onions are lightly battered and deep-fried until they achieve that perfect level of crispiness. Not only do they add texture, but they also offer a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the savoury elements of a meal. Whether sprinkled over a festive turkey or incorporated into a classic onion bhaji, crispy fried onions are a culinary treasure that elevates ordinary dishes to extraordinary heights.

Air-fried wontons are a delightful and healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried snack. Made with delicate wrappers filled with a savoury mix of minced meat, vegetables, and fragrant spices, these morsels are perfect for a quick bite or a party platter. The air fryer cooks them to a crisp golden finish while retaining all the juicy goodness inside.

To prepare, simply fill each wonton wrapper, seal them tightly, and lightly spray or brush with oil before placing them in the air fryer basket. In less time than it takes to preheat an oven, you’ll have a platter of crunchy, yet satisfying treats. Serve them with a dipping sauce of soy or sweet chilli for an irresistible flavour combination — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is easy to prepare.

Crispy chicharrones, a beloved treat in Cuban cuisine, are an indulgence that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. This mouth-watering dish is crafted from pork belly, which is carefully prepared to ensure the perfect contrast of textures: tender, succulent meat encased in an impossibly crunchy, golden-brown skin. The pork is typically marinated in a medley of spices that may include garlic, oregano, and sour orange, infusing it with vibrant flavours before it undergoes the frying process.

When cooked to perfection, the chicharrones are not only crispy but also have a delightful savouriness that makes them hard to resist. Often enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, they're best served with a squeeze of lime and perhaps a sprinkle of salt, enhancing their rich taste. These delightful morsels can also be paired with a variety of dipping sauces or served alongside traditional Cuban dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or as a casual street food favourite, crispy chicharrones embody the heart and soul of Cuban culinary heritage.

As the crisp air of autumn sets in and the leaves begin their vibrant descent, there's nothing quite like indulging in a comforting treat that encapsulates the essence of the season. Enter the Fall-Inspired Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings, a delightful twist on the classic apple experience. With their golden, crunchy exterior and warm, spiced filling, these apple rings are perfect for cosy evenings in or festive gatherings.

To create this delectable delicacy, start by selecting tart apples such as Granny Smith, which provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon-infused batter. After slicing the apples into delightful rings, dip them into a homemade batter featuring flour, sugar, and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. As they gently sizzle in hot oil, the sweet, aromatic scent will waft through your kitchen, stirring nostalgia and anticipation.

Once fried to perfection, dust the apple rings with icing sugar and serve them warm. These treats are delightful on their own but are even more irresistible when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Gather your loved ones, savour the first bite, and let the flavours of fall embrace you in each warm, spiced morsel.

Crispy fried polenta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with a satisfying crunch. To start, prepare the polenta by bringing water to a gentle boil and slowly whisking in the cornmeal, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. After cooking for around 30 minutes, pour the creamy polenta into a lined tray and allow it to cool completely, ideally overnight in the fridge.

Once set, cut the polenta into lovely, bite-sized squares or sticks. For frying, heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pan until shimmering. Carefully add the polenta pieces, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, then transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

Serve your crispy fried polenta warm, perhaps drizzled with a fragrant herb oil or accompanied by a tangy dip. It’s the perfect starter or snack, with a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of flavours. Enjoy!