Bollos
Bollos are crispy, savory fritters made from seasoned black-eyed peas, garlic, and peppers. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make a delightful snack or appetizer suited to those who enjoy bold flavors and fried treats. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a tasty starter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the black-eyed peas overnight.
- Remove the husks by rubbing the peas between your hands until they are loose.
- Place the peas in water again; the husks will rise to the top. Pour them off.
- Grind the peas, garlic, and peppers to a very fine paste.
- Save the drippings from the grinder and add them along with the salt to the paste.
- Add a little water if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
- Beat the mixture with an electric beater until it becomes creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into hot deep fat and fry until brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother paste, consider using a food processor instead of a grinder. If you can't find bird peppers, jalapeños can provide a similar heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test by dropping a small amount of batter in. If it sizzles immediately, you're ready. For a twist, add spices like cumin for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve bollos hot with a side of spicy dipping sauce or your favorite salsa for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Spiced Maple Cider, making them a great appetizer for gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a side of Grandma's Smothered Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bollos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can re-fry them in a little oil for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bollos contains roughly 397 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (19% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned black-eyed peas for this recipe?
While fresh black-eyed peas are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use canned peas in a pinch. Rinse and drain them thoroughly before grinding, but be aware that the consistency may be slightly different, affecting the final result.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more bird peppers or include a dash of cayenne pepper in the mixture. You can also serve the bollos with a spicy sauce or hot pepper relish to enhance the spiciness of the dish.
Can I make these bollos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to fry, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the desired texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).