Dive into the sun-kissed flavors of Santorini with our irresistible Greek Tomato Patties, or Tomatokeftedes! These delightful bites are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of fresh Mediterranean goodness that will transport your taste buds straight to the Aegean Sea. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, these golden-brown patties are made with ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs, making them a must-try for any home cook. Ready to impress your friends and family with a taste of Greece? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by grating the ripe tomatoes into a large mixing bowl, ensuring you capture all their juices and pulp.
- Add the finely chopped onion and fresh parsley to the grated tomatoes, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Gradually incorporate the flour into the tomato mixture, stirring carefully to create a cohesive batter. The mixture should be slightly wet but able to hold its shape.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Allow the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes, which helps the ingredients meld and the flour to absorb some of the tomato liquid.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Using a spoon, carefully drop small portions of the tomato mixture into the hot oil, gently flattening each patty with the back of the spoon.
- Fry the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crispy exterior.
- Remove the patties using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve warm as a appetizer or side dish, optionally garnished with additional fresh parsley or a dollop of tzatziki.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select the ripest tomatoes you can find. The juicier the tomatoes, the more delicious your patties will be!
- Rest the Mixture: Allowing the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes is crucial. This step helps the flavors meld together and ensures the flour absorbs some of the tomato liquid for better texture.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not hot enough, the patties will absorb too much oil and become soggy. A good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
- Shape Matters: When forming the patties, try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Flatten them slightly to ensure they cook through and develop a crispy exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: These patties are fantastic on their own, but for an extra touch, serve them with a side of tzatziki or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a true Greek experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
