Liberian-style Green Bean Fritters

Ingredients

In the original Italian dish, Polpettone di fagiolini, the green beans are typically formed into a loaf shape and baked. However, in this Liberian adaptation, we transform the dish into fritters by shaping the mixture into patties and frying them. Additionally, we incorporate Liberian spices and flavors to give the fritters a distinct taste that reflects the culinary traditions of Liberia. We alse have the original recipe for Polpettone di fagiolini, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green beans, trimmed and finely chopped 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green beans, trimmed and finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped green beans, onion, garlic, ginger, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Add the flour and beaten eggs to the bowl and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Take a small handful of the green bean mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Liberian-style Green Bean Fritters hot with a spicy dipping sauce or as a side dish to complement your meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Green beans — Make sure to finely chop the green beans to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crunch, you can add some breadcrumbs to the green bean mixture before shaping them into patties.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
• Serve the fritters with a refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip for a cooling contrast to the spices.

Serving advice

Serve the Liberian-style Green Bean Fritters as an appetizer or side dish alongside a main course. They pair well with rice dishes, grilled meats, or as part of a larger spread of Liberian cuisine.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve them with the spicy dipping sauce in a small bowl on the side.