Entree: Belize – Conch Fritters (Deep-fried seasoned fritters made with chopped conch served with a citrusy spicy dipping sauce)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 25 min

Cook 15 min

Total 40 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) conch meat, cleaned and chopped
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60 g) fine cornmeal
- 1 tsp (4 g) baking powder
- 1/2 tsp (3 g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
- 1 tsp (2 g) paprika
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) cayenne pepper, optional for heat
- 2 large eggs, approx. 1.75 oz (50 g) each, beaten
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) lime juice, divided
- 1/2 cup (75 g) yellow onion, very finely diced
- 1/4 cup (35 g) red bell pepper, very finely diced
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves (6 g) garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable oil for deep frying
- Lime wedges for serving
- Hot sauce for serving

Instructions

1. If using fresh tough conch, simmer the whole cleaned conch in salted water until tender, 45–60 minutes; drain, cool, and chop finely. If using pre-tenderized or canned conch, chop to bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne.
3. In a separate bowl combine beaten eggs, milk, 2 tbsp (30 ml) lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until a thick batter forms.
4. Fold the chopped conch, finely diced onion, red bell pepper, and cilantro into the batter until evenly distributed. The batter should be scoopable but hold together; add a tablespoon of milk if too stiff.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to allow fritters to float while frying.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid crowding, and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined tray.
7. While still hot, squeeze remaining lime juice over the fritters or serve with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side. Serve immediately.