Funchi Fritters with Spicy Mango Salsa

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (150g) cornmeal 1 cup (150g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Spicy Mango Salsa: For the Spicy Mango Salsa:
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, salt, cumin, and paprika. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
2. 2.
   Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small patties.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the fritters until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. 4.
   In a bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Mix well to combine.
5. 5.
   Serve the fritters warm with the spicy mango salsa on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the fritters.
• Mangoes — Choose ripe mangoes for the salsa to ensure a sweet and juicy flavor.
• Jalapeño — Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your spice preference. Remove the seeds for a milder salsa.
• Lime juice — Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a vibrant citrus flavor to the salsa.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a different herbaceous note.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, you can lightly coat the shaped fritters with cornstarch before frying.
• Serve the fritters immediately after frying to enjoy their crispy texture.
• If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the membrane from the jalapeño before mincing.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the fritters before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs in the salsa, such as mint or basil, to add a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Funchi Fritters with Spicy Mango Salsa as an appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves for a fresh and vibrant presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden fritters on a platter and place a small bowl of the spicy mango salsa in the center. Sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro over the fritters for a pop of color. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an inviting presentation.