Thai-inspired Tomato Fritters

Ingredients

While the original Greek tomatokeftedes are typically seasoned with Mediterranean herbs like oregano and mint, this Thai-inspired version incorporates Thai flavors such as lemongrass, ginger, and Thai basil. The fritters are also fried until crispy, giving them a different texture compared to the Greek version, which is often baked. The addition of Thai dipping sauce enhances the overall taste and adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Tomatokeftedes, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon red curry paste 1 teaspoon red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, lemongrass, ginger, Thai basil, cilantro, flour, breadcrumbs, red curry paste, fish sauce, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the tomato mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Carefully place the tomato patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Thai-inspired tomato fritters hot with a side of Thai dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers before finely chopping the tender inner part for a more delicate flavor.
• Thai basil — If Thai basil is not available, regular basil can be used as a substitute.
• Red curry paste — Adjust the amount according to your preferred level of spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crunch, you can add some chopped peanuts to the tomato mixture before frying.
• Serve the fritters with a side of Thai sweet chili sauce for a tangy and sweet flavor contrast.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of red curry paste.
• Make sure the tomatoes are finely chopped to prevent the fritters from falling apart during frying.
• To make the fritters gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with cornmeal.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-inspired tomato fritters as an appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a main course when accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed rice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Serve with a small bowl of Thai dipping sauce on the side for an inviting presentation.