Black Bean Fritters

If you find yourself a bit hesitant towards eating veggies, it can be hard to find good recipes that are tasty and nutritious.

These black bean fritters, however, do strike that balance. This recipe is hearty and healthy while also being incredibly delicious. You’ll be whipping up a new batch of fritters in no time after you’ve taken a bite of this dish!

Black Beans Explained

Black beans come in many different shapes and sizes. They have satin black skin and a white inside. Black beans are enjoyed in many cultures and are packed with flavor and great nutritional value.

black beans are soft, creamy, and mild. They do not have an overwhelming flavor, which is why they are a great, nutritious addition to many dishes. They usually absorb flavor from the spices and herbs used in a dish. 

What Can You Substitute Black Beans With?

When it comes to substituting beans in this recipe, it’s important to consider texture primarily. Black beans have a very soft, almost creamy texture.

I suggest that if you end up swapping out the black beans in this recipe, go with great northern beans or pinto beans because they are the most similar, texturally speaking. 

Fritter Texture

Fritters are notorious for being too delicate to even handle without falling apart. To give them a little bit of a structural edge, try frying the beans in a pan beforehand to dry them out a bit.

Using oats in the recipe is also a great way to include a grain that’ll help soak up some extra moisture and provide stability in the fritter.

Also, make sure to blend the fritters to a reasonably cohesive state. You can still have them a bit chunky depending on your preference, but not too chunky.

Baked Vs Fried

This recipe uses an oven to cook the fritters. Personally, I much more prefer this method because I can cook more fritters at once.

However, if you want to fry these in a skillet, make sure that each side of the fritter gets plenty of time cooking to develop a nice golden brown crust and add some great toasty flavor.

Can I Add Any Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! These fritters are great because you can swap out different ingredients depending on what flavors you want in your dish.

I occasionally like to add a handful of toasted walnuts for a nutty flavor. I also swap out the onion with scallions for a bit of a fresher, sharper flavor. Adding a handful of additional fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill is also a great idea.

If you want to spice up the things you can add a teaspoon of curry powder or a spice blend like za’atar.

In terms of sides, I like to serve my black bean fritters with guacamole, salsa, or Greek yogurt combined and a little pesto. 

How To Make Black Bean Fritters

Step 1

Assemble your ingredients!

In a high-power food blender or processor, combine black beans, onion, and bell peppers. 

Step 2

Blitz the ingredients to get a chunky texture.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients. 

Stir until well combined and smooth. 

Step 3

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Scoop 1/3 cup of the mixture and place on a baking sheet. Shape into a fritter with the back of your spoon. 

Bake the fritters for 20-25 minutes, gently flipping halfway through.

Step 4

Serve fritters with mashed avocado or salsa and enjoy!

Up Next: What Do Sea Grapes Taste Like?