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
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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!