Crispy Ibaïona Ham Fritters with Comté Cheese: An Authentic Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 125 g flour
• 60 g butter
• 90 g Ibaïona ham
• 60 g grated Comté cheese
• 5 eggs
• Grated nutmeg
• Frying oil
• Salt and ground pepper

Preparation

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 5 minutes
• Resting time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Finely chop the Ibaïona ham.
2. Bring 20 cl of water to a boil with the butter, salt, pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg. Once boiling, add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Off the heat, incorporate the grated Comté cheese and chopped ham. Mix well. Add the eggs one by one, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Transfer to a bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rest for 1 hour.
4. Heat the frying oil to 180°C.
5. Using two spoons, form balls of dough the size of a small egg and place them in a frying basket. Fry in the hot oil for 5 minutes, until puffed and golden. Drain on absorbent paper.
6. Repeat until all dough is used. Serve hot for the best crispy texture.