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West Indian Pumpkin Fritters (Frituras de Calabaza)

By Hector Rodriguez, About.com

West Indian Pumpkin Fritters - Frituras de Calabaza

West Indian Pumpkin Fritters - Frituras de Calabaza

Photo © Hector Rodriguez 2008
One way to enjoy a West Indian Pumpkin, or calabaza, is to turn it into fritters. Enjoy these sweet fritters as appetizers or as a snack. If you can't find calabaza at your grocery store then substitute butternut, Hubbard or acorn squash in its place.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds of calabaza flesh (rind and seeds removed)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Preparation:

  1. Cut the calabaza into equal sized pieces.
  2. Place the calabaza pieces into a pot and add the water and salt.
  3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes. The calabaza should be soft.
  4. Remove and drain the calabaza in a colander. Let set for about 15 minutes to drain off all the liquid.
  5. Place the calabaza in a mixing bowl. Add sugar, flour, and vanilla. Mix well.
  6. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350F.
  7. Fry the calabaza mixture by the spoonfuls until golden on each side, about 2 minutes per side. The fritters will be light brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft on the inside.
  8. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Serves: Depending on how big your spoonfuls are, this recipe will make about 24 fritters.
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