Dish

Pholourie

Fried Spiced Dough Balls

Pholourie is a vegetarian dish that is high in protein and fiber. The batter is made from ground split peas, flour, baking powder, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The mixture is then rolled into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. The dish is often served as an appetizer or snack, and can be enjoyed on its own or with a dipping sauce. Pholourie is a popular street food in Trinidad and Tobago, and is also enjoyed in other Caribbean countries such as Guyana and Suriname.

Cuisine of the Americas› Caribbean cuisine› Trinidad and Tobago cuisine

Appetizer

Origins and history

Pholourie is believed to have originated in India, and was brought to the Caribbean by indentured laborers in the 19th century. The dish has since become a popular street food in Trinidad and Tobago, and is often served at festivals and other cultural events.

Dietary considerations

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free (if made with gluten-free flour)

Variations

Pholourie can be made with different spices and herbs, such as garlic, ginger, and cilantro. Some recipes also call for the addition of grated vegetables such as carrots or zucchini. The dipping sauce can also be varied, with some recipes using a spicy mango chutney or a sweet and sour tamarind sauce.

Presentation and garnishing

Pholourie can be presented on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center, garnished with chopped cilantro or green onions. The dish can also be served in individual paper cones for a more casual presentation.

Tips & Tricks

To make the batter for pholourie, it is important to soak the split peas overnight to ensure that they are soft enough to grind. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls, but not too thick that it becomes heavy and dense. When deep-frying, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature to ensure that the pholourie cooks evenly and becomes crispy.

Side-dishes

Pholourie can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as channa (curried chickpeas), aloo choka (mashed potatoes with spices), or fried plantains. It can also be served with a simple salad of chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.