Golden Fritters and Sweet Sfenj: Two Mediterranean Recipes to Try

A Feast of Flavors: Irod Fritters and Sweet Sfenj

Food tells a story of culture, tradition, and home. Today we look at two vibrant recipes that bring rich Mediterranean flavors straight to your kitchen, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Crispy Irod Fritters with Harissa Aioli

These vegetable-packed fritters are golden, crispy, and bursting with fresh herbs and spices. Served alongside a zesty harissa aioli, crushed tomatoes, and a tangy herb salad, they make an incredible appetizer or main course.

Ingredients for the Irod Fritters:

• 4 zucchinis, finely grated

• 2 large sweet potatoes, finely grated

• 3 potatoes, finely grated

• 1 white onion, finely grated

• 1 bunch celery, chopped

• 1 bunch parsley, chopped

• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped

• 3 green onion stalks, chopped

• 1 tbsp turmeric

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp sweet paprika

• 1 tsp baharat

• 1 tbsp chicken soup powder

• 3 eggs, beaten

• 150g breadcrumbs

• Oil for frying

Preparation:

Mix all the fritter ingredients thoroughly in a bowl until you get a uniform mixture. Heat frying oil to 170 degrees Celsius. Form small balls and fry until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Prepare the accompanying dips by mixing their respective ingredients in separate bowls, and serve immediately alongside a fresh herb salad.

Sweet Sfenj with Ricotta and Oregano

For those with a sweet tooth, homemade sfenj offers an irresistible crispy-yet-fluffy texture, elevated here with fresh ricotta, honey, and a delicate orange blossom syrup.

Ingredients for the Sfenj:

• 1 kg white flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 tbsp dry yeast

• Pinch of salt

• 4.5 cups water

• A splash of Arak

Preparation:

Knead all the dough ingredients in a mixer on medium speed for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for an hour and a half. Heat frying oil in a wide pot. Shape the dough into balls, punch a hole in the center to form rings, and fry for about four minutes until golden. Coat in sugar while warm and serve with fresh ricotta, honey, and orange blossom syrup.