Vegan Fried Cornmeal Tomato Cakes Recipe

About this recipe

A delicious vegan twist on a classic dish, these crispy cornmeal cakes are infused with fresh green onions and juicy tomatoes, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 Kg Natco Cornmeal Medium, 1.5Kg
• 6 X 400G Cirio Polpa Finissima Finely Chopped Italian Tomatoes
• 50G Picard Chopped Chives
• 60G Mill & Mortar Organic Salt Of Hearts, 60G
• - Ktc Vegetable Oil

Instructions

1. 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1/4 cup of finely chopped chives, 2 cups of diced tomatoes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to form a thick batter.
2. 2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. 3. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet, flattening them slightly to form small cakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
4. 4. Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. 5. Serve the cornmeal tomato cakes warm, garnished with additional chopped chives if desired.

Frequently asked questions

What role does cornmeal play in the Vegan Fried Cornmeal Tomato Cakes?

Cornmeal is the primary binding agent in this recipe, giving the cakes their structure and signature crispy texture. It absorbs the moisture from the tomatoes and chives, creating a batter that holds together during frying. Using medium cornmeal ensures the cakes have a pleasant crunch without being overly coarse.

Can I substitute the Cirio Polpa Finissima Finely Chopped Italian Tomatoes with another type of tomato?

Yes, but it's important to use finely chopped or diced tomatoes with minimal liquid content to avoid a runny batter. Fresh tomatoes can be used if diced finely and drained slightly, but canned tomatoes like Cirio Polpa Finissima are ideal for their consistent texture and flavor.

How can I ensure the cakes cook evenly and don’t fall apart in the skillet?

Make sure the batter is thick enough to hold its shape; if it's too loose, add a little more cornmeal. When frying, avoid overcrowding the skillet and use medium heat to ensure the cakes cook evenly without burning. Flip carefully after 3-4 minutes using a spatula to maintain their structure.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftover tomato cakes?

Store leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger group or reduce it for a smaller serving?

To scale up, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities while keeping the ratios consistent. For smaller servings, halve the ingredients. Ensure you use a large enough skillet when scaling up to avoid overcrowding, or cook in batches.