Pholourie (Trinidadian Split Pea Fritters)

Pholourie is a beloved snack from Trinidad and Tobago, featuring golden, deep-fried fritters made from split peas and fragrant spices. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fritters are perfect for dipping in tangy tamarind sauce or enjoying on their own. Pholourie is a staple at street markets, festivals, and family gatherings, offering a delicious taste of Caribbean culinary tradition.

Ingredients

• 1 cup split peas, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

   In a food processor or blender, combine the soaked split peas, flour, baking powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garlic, onion, Scotch bonnet pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add water gradually and blend until a smooth, thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter—thick but scoopable.

2. Heat the Oil

   Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

3. Fry the Fritters

   Spoon small portions of the batter into the hot oil, using a spoon or your hands to form round fritters. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

4. Serve

   Serve Pholourie hot with tamarind sauce, mango chutney, or a simple chili sauce. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to tea.

Serving

Enjoy Pholourie as part of a Caribbean spread with doubles, chutneys, and fresh fruit. The fritters are ideal for parties, street food stalls, or casual family gatherings. Pholourie offers a delightful balance of spice, crunch, and soft texture, embodying the vibrant flavors of Trinidadian cuisine.