Jamaican Style Potato Fritters

Ingredients

In this Jamaican adaptation, the traditional Spanish omelette is transformed into crispy fritters. The original dish typically consists of sliced potatoes and onions cooked in a pan with eggs, resulting in a thick omelette-like texture. However, in the Jamaican version, the potatoes are thinly sliced and mixed with scallions, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper for a spicier and more vibrant flavor profile. The mixture is then shaped into fritters and pan-fried until crispy, giving it a unique texture and presentation. We alse have the original recipe for Tortilla de patata, so you can check it out.

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (500g) 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (500g)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves only 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves only
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, chopped onion, scallions, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme leaves, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take a handful of the potato mixture and shape it into a flat fritter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Carefully place the fritters into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Jamaican Style Potato Fritters hot as a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Adjust the amount of pepper according to your spice preference. Be cautious as Scotch bonnet peppers are very hot, so handle them with gloves and avoid touching your face or eyes.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, you can lightly coat the shaped fritters with flour or breadcrumbs before frying.
• Serve the fritters with a side of spicy Jamaican jerk sauce or a cooling mango salsa for a burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute the Scotch bonnet pepper with a milder chili pepper.

Serving advice

Serve the Jamaican Style Potato Fritters as an appetizer or side dish alongside a refreshing tropical salad or as part of a Jamaican-inspired brunch spread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh thyme leaves and sliced scallions for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.