Gambian-style Chicken Fritters

Ingredients

While the original Coxinha is traditionally made with shredded chicken and cream cheese filling, Gambian-style Chicken Fritters incorporate a Gambian twist by using a blend of seasoned chicken, onions, and herbs. The spices and flavors used in the Gambian version are influenced by the local cuisine, giving the fritters a distinct taste that sets them apart. We alse have the original recipe for Coxinha, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups (250g) cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground ginger, ground coriander, ground paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
2. 2.
   In a separate saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually add the flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously until a smooth dough forms.
3. 3.
   Remove the dough from the heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, knead the dough until it becomes soft and pliable.
4. 4.
   Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of the dough and shape it into a small ball, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot. Fry the fritters in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. 6.
   Serve the Gambian-style Chicken Fritters hot as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded before using it in the recipe to achieve the desired texture.
• Ground ginger — Adjust the amount of ground ginger according to your preference for spiciness.
• Fresh parsley — For a burst of freshness, use fresh parsley instead of dried parsley.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the fritters extra crispy, you can double-coat them by dipping them in beaten egg and then rolling them in breadcrumbs before frying.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the fritters to your liking.
• Serve the fritters with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a spicy tomato chutney or a yogurt-based sauce, to complement the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Gambian-style Chicken Fritters as a snack or appetizer at parties, gatherings, or as a delicious accompaniment to a main meal. They can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Gambian-style Chicken Fritters on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for an appealing presentation. Serve them alongside a small bowl of dipping sauce to enhance the visual appeal.