Bahamian Conch Fritters

mewmew's Note:

Probably the most popular recipe in the Bahamian/Caribbean cuisine. Fresh Conch isn't always easy to find, and it has to be fresh. Be careful to keep it refrigerated and use as soon as possible.

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 4 conch, finely minced
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 2 celery, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1 3/4 cups flour (enough to bind batter)
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 dash pepper, Bahamian hot pepper sauce (or equal)
• 4 cups vegetable oil, as much as needed

Directions:

1. 1. Combine conch with chopped vegetables.
2. 2. Add egg.
3. 3. Mix flour, baking powder and salt together and add to conch mixture.
4. 4. Season to taste.
5. 5. Form into balls 1 - 2 inches in size.
6. 6. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 375 deg. To prevent cooling the oil too quickly, drop one fritter at a time into the pan, waiting a few seconds before adding additional fritters.
7. 7. Fry 3 - 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides, turning the fritters as they rise to the surface.
8. 8. Drain on paper towels.
9. Serve with Key Lime Mustard Sauce (recipe to come) or other coctail sauce.