As the weather begins to cool, we naturally find ourselves looking for more indoor activities that not only warm our hearts but fill our tummies with comforting foods.
These cinnamon apple fritters tick both boxes, are easy to make using pantry staples and seasonal fruit, and will fill the house with the coziest aroma.
Apples contain fibre and pectin (found in the skin) to support a healthy gut, while cinnamon works to keep blood sugar levels stable.
They also contain quercetin, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation, especially in the respiratory tract. Winter produce is naturally rich in nutrients like these to help our bodies stay healthy through the cooler months.
The flour, milk, and sugar options can all be substituted to suit your family’s preferences.
I’ve used chickpea flour for its buttery-nuttiness and to add protein. Using coconut milk makes them dairy free, while coconut sugar adds a caramel flavour and slow-release energy.
There are lots of ways the kids can get involved with these fritters at an age-appropriate level, from coring and slicing to mixing, frying and sprinkling – and being involved in their creation will always make eating the reward at the end even sweeter.
They’re at their best when eaten warm, plain or served with a dollop of yoghurt or vanilla ice cream.
Serves: 12 – Prep time: 5 minutes – Cook time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
• 1 large red apple
• 1/3 cup chickpea (besan) flour
• 1 large free-range egg
• 2 Tbsp coconut milk
• 1 Tbsp coconut sugar
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup olive oil, for frying
• 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Make your batter by adding flour, milk, egg, and sugar to a medium-sized bowl and whisk until well combined.
2. Core and slice your apple into 5mm rounds.
3. Heat oil in a large frying pan – use enough to cover the base for shallow frying. Use a wooden spoon to test whether your oil is hot enough, then turn the heat down to medium.
4. Dip each apple round into your batter, coating both sides before carefully transferring to your hot oil. Gently lay the slices in the oil to prevent them from spattering. They’ll only need to fry for about 30 seconds, until they’re golden, then it’s time to gently flip them over. You’ll likely get 6 slices in your pan at a time, so repeat with the rest of the slices.
5. Once cooked, transfer to a cooling rack with paper towel underneath and dust with cinnamon.
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