| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 15g | 2g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 3g | 5g | 0.8g |
One of the best parts about living in a city like New York is the endless array of culinary adventures waiting around every corner. But sometimes, the most exciting journeys happen right in your own kitchen. The recipe for Deep Fried Spicy Water Caltrop embodies everything I love about creating new dishes: it’s a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and a little bit of daring.
The water caltrop, often overlooked in the world of vegetables, transforms into a crispy, spicy delight when deep fried. I first encountered this unique ingredient on a trip to Queens, where I stumbled upon a vibrant Thai market. While this recipe resembles vegetable tempura or even fried pickles, it has its own distinctive twist, making it a standout on any menu.
A Crunchy, Flavorful Experience
The beauty of this Deep Fried Spicy Water Caltrop recipe lies in its texture and flavor. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the batter creates an irresistible crunch, while the spices—paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder—add layers of nuanced heat and aroma. Paired with a zesty lime wedge and fresh cilantro, each bite is a harmonious balance of spice, zest, and crunch.
Health Benefits
Water caltrops are not just an exotic addition to your pantry; they also come packed with health benefits. Rich in protein, fibers, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium, these peculiar-looking vegetables contribute positively to your diet. The spices in this recipe add another layer of health benefits. Cayenne pepper, for instance, is known for its metabolism-boosting properties, while garlic powder boasts anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. Enjoying this dish feels indulgent, but it’s a sneakily nutritious treat.
Like many vegetable-based recipes, Deep Fried Spicy Water Caltrop could be an exciting side dish next to a simple main course like roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also stands out served alongside other fried delights such as calamari or even your classic fries. The crunch and spice contribute an extra dimension to any meal.
The next time you feel like adding a bit of adventure to your meal, give this Deep Fried Spicy Water Caltrop recipe a try. It might just become one of your new kitchen staples, bridging the gap between the diverse flavors of New York City and your personal culinary explorations.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs fresh water caltrops, cleaned and peeled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 large egg
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Two
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold water and egg until well combined. Slowly add the egg mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a smooth batter. The batter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Adjust with more water or flour as necessary.
Step Three
Heat a large pot or deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You will need enough oil to fully submerge the water caltrops.
Step Four
Dip each cleaned and peeled water caltrop into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Carefully drop the coated water caltrops into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Step Five
Fry the water caltrops for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step Six
Once all the water caltrops are fried, season them with a pinch of salt while they are still hot. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and chopped fresh cilantro. Enjoy your Deep Fried Spicy Water Caltrop!
