Skip to main content

Herb Fritters

Crisp herb fritters are an unusual way to savor fresh herbs. Dipped in beer batter, fried lightly in oil, and served with lemon wedges, they make a delightful accompaniment to a glass of wine. If the batter is too thick, thin with a little water; if it is too thin, add a little flour.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4

Ingredients

2 large eggs, separated
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for frying
1/2 cup beer
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 ounces assorted herbs, such as basil, mint, sage, parsley, oregano, tarragon, and chives
1 teaspoon coarse salt, plus more for seasoning
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Whisk together the yolks, oil, and beer in a bowl. Slowly add the flour, whisking until just combined. Set aside for 20 minutes. Wash and dry the herbs. Whisk the egg whites to soft peaks; fold into the beer batter. Add the salt and pepper.

    Step 2

    In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 1 inch oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking, about 375°F on a fry thermometer. Dip each herb into the batter, shaking off excess, until lightly coated. Place the herbs in the oil, turning until golden, about 1 minute. Drain on paper towels; season with salt. Serve with lemon wedges.

The cookbook cover with a blue background and fine typeface.
Reprinted with permission from The Martha Stewart Living Cookbook: The New Classics by Martha Stewart Living Magazine, copyright © 2007. Published by Clarkson Potter, a division of The Crown Publishing Group. Buy the full book from Amazon.
Read More
Like a watermelon salad and salmon burgers.
A beefed-up take on a BBQ staple.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
The secret to juicy grilled chicken, a sheet-cake swap for banana pudding, and more reasons to light up the grill and have people over all summer long.
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
Chicken salad, pasta salad, and Caesar salad, all in one.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Use the beer, not the can, for this citrusy take on a classic that nods to mojo criollo.