Delicious Vegetable Cheese Beignets

Delicious Vegetable Cheese Beignets

Vegetable cheese beignets are the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, making them a delightful option for any time of the day. Packed with a variety of vegetables and a cheesy filling, these beignets are not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a quick get-together or looking for a tasty side dish, this simple recipe for homemade vegetable cheese beignets will be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Beignets:

• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 zucchini, grated
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow, green, and red bell peppers
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Grate the carrot and zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture to ensure your beignets are crispy.
• Finely chop the bell peppers and onions.

Step 2: Make the Batter

• In a large bowl, combine the grated carrot, zucchini, chopped bell peppers, and onions. Add the shredded cheese and mix well.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the vegetable and cheese mixture, followed by the egg and milk mixture. Stir until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk.

Step 3: Fry the Beignets

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spoon to form small patties.
• Fry each beignet for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve the vegetable beignets warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or spicy mayonnaise.

Tips for Perfect Beignets

• Drain the Vegetables: Ensure all excess water is removed from the grated zucchini to keep the beignets crispy.
• Choose the Right Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works wonderfully for a balanced flavor.
• Optimal Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the beignets from becoming too oily.

Making vegetable cheese beignets at home is both simple and rewarding. They are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy more vegetables in your diet while satisfying your craving for something savory and crunchy. Perfect for a quick snack or as appetizers for a gathering, these beignets are sure to impress!