Ramp Fritters

Crispy, golden-brown fritters made with fresh ramps, a seasonal wild leek, in a light beer batter. These delicate fritters are perfect served with a squeeze of lemon for a spring appetizer or side dish.

6 servings
40 min

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup rice flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ¾ cup club soda
  • ¾ cup light beer
  • 10 oz ramps
  • 6 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 whole lemon
  • 1 piece deep-fry thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Remove any slippery outer layers from ramp bulbs, trim roots, then soak in a bowl of cold water, swishing around gently to loosen any dirt.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Lift out ramps and blot dry with paper towels. Avoid cramming them in a salad spinner so as not to damage the delicate leaves.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Cut ramps into 1" pieces ( you should get about 5 cups). Whisk all-purpose flour, rice flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl to combine. Make a well in the center and pour in club soda and beer; whisk until smooth. Fold in ramps.

    10 min

  4. 4.

    Pour oil into a large cast-iron skillet fitted with thermometer to come 1" up sides and heat over medium-high until thermometer registers 350°F. Working in batches, place 1/4-cup mounds of batter into skillet and press down lightly to flatten and submerge. Fry, turning once, until fritters are golden brown, about 4 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain; sprinkle with salt. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over.

    20 min