The Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe are a popular dish in Seychellois cuisine, and I, a confirmed foodie, only recently learned about their existence. To prepare the dish, ground fish or seafood is combined with a variety of spices and chili peppers before being shaped into small cakes and fried until golden brown.
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The spicy aroma and slight burn from the chili peppers in the chili cakes hit me immediately. The scent was both invigorating and appetizing, and it immediately made me eager to taste them.
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The depth and intensity of flavor in the chili cakes completely blew me away. The fish and spices complemented each other beautifully, and the heat from the chili peppers was spot on without overpowering the dish. The cakes’ crisp exterior and juicy interior made for a delicious meal.
If you’re a foodie and you ever find yourself in the Seychelles, you have to try the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe. Their crisp texture and distinctive, robust flavor set them apart as a signature dish in Seychellois cooking.
How To Make Our the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Ingredients (8 Servings)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups finely chopped fresh green chilies (remove seeds for milder heat)
1 cup finely chopped onions
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Preparing the Batter:
a. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, turmeric powder, salt, and ground black pepper.
b. Whisk the dry ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.
c. Add the finely chopped green chilies, onions, and fresh cilantro to the bowl.
d. Gradually pour in the water while stirring the mixture.
e. Continue adding water until a thick, smooth batter forms.
f. Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Heating the Oil:
a. Place a deep frying pan or pot on the stove.
b. Pour enough vegetable oil into the pan to ensure the fritters will be fully submerged.
c. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (180°C).
d. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature.
e. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent frying temperature.
f. Allow the oil to fully heat before moving on to the next step.
3. Shaping and Frying the Fritters:
a. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
b. Fry a few fritters at a time, ensuring they have enough space to float and cook evenly.
c. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
d. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip the fritters to ensure even frying.
e. Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
f. Continue shaping and frying the remaining batter in batches until all the fritters are cooked.
4. Draining and Cooling:
a. Allow the fried fritters to drain on the paper towels for a few minutes.
b. Gently blot the fritters with additional paper towels to remove any excess oil.
c. Transfer the fritters to a wire rack to cool completely.
d. Let the fritters cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
e. The fritters should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
f. Avoid overcrowding the fritters on the wire rack to maintain their crispiness.
5. Serving Suggestions:
a. Arrange the Seychelles Gateaux Piment on a serving platter or plate.
b. Serve the fritters as an appetizer or snack with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as tomato chutney or yogurt-based dip.
c. Garnish the platter with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.
d. Encourage guests to enjoy the fritters while they are still warm and crispy.
e. Provide small serving utensils or toothpicks for easy picking and dipping.
f. Consider serving the Gateaux Piment alongside other Seychellois dishes or as part of a buffet spread.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Food processor or blender
Frying pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Clean jar for storing the chili paste
The best way to store Seychelles Chili Cakes is to transfer the chili paste to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The chili paste can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Red chilies: Thai chilies, cayenne peppers, or jalapenos
Vegetable oil: Canola oil, sunflower oil, or any other neutral-flavored oil
Vinegar: White wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or apple cider vinegar
To make a vegetarian version of Seychelles Chili Cakes, simply omit the salted fish that is sometimes added to the recipe.
Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation
Use gloves when handling the fresh chilies to avoid irritation to your skin.
Adjust the amount of chilies to your desired level of spiciness.
To make the paste smoother, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before frying it.
Possible side dishes and desserts to serve with Seychelles Chili Cakes:
Rice or bread
Grilled fish or meat
Steamed vegetables or salad
Fresh tropical fruit, such as mango or pineapple
Instructions on how to serve Seychelles Chili Cakes:
Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Use as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or grilled meats.
Add to soups, stews, or curries for extra spice and flavor.
Use as a marinade for fish or chicken.
Mix with mayonnaise or yogurt for a spicy sandwich spread.
Serve alongside rice and steamed vegetables as a side dish.
How To Serve the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
The best way to store Seychelles Chili Cakes is to transfer the chili paste to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The chili paste can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Substitutions For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Use as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or grilled meats.
Add to soups, stews, or curries for extra spice and flavor.
Use as a marinade for fish or chicken.
Mix with mayonnaise or yogurt for a spicy sandwich spread.
Serve alongside rice and steamed vegetables as a side dish.
Substitutions For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
1. Vegan Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
b. Use plant-based butter or margarine instead of regular butter.
c. Replace any animal-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as tofu or tempeh.
d. Use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for dairy milk.
e. Swap honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for sweetness.
f. Choose vegan Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce instead of fish sauce, if applicable.
g. Opt for vegetable-based side dishes or salads instead of animal-based sides.
2. Gluten-Free Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Use gluten-free vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
b. Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce preparing the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
c. Use a gluten-free flour blend as a replacement for regular flour.
d. Confirm that any pre-packaged ingredients used, like canned tomatoes or coconut milk, are labeled gluten-free.
e. Choose gluten-free spices and seasonings to avoid any hidden sources of gluten.
f. Use gluten-free smoked fish or tofu if smoked fish is included in the recipe.
g. Serve the Creole rice with gluten-free side dishes or salads.
3. Vegetarian Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Omit any meat or seafood ingredients and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
b. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
c. Opt for vegetarian-friendly Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce instead of fish sauce, if applicable.
d. Include a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
e. Consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture.
f. Use vegetable-based toppings or garnishes, such as nutritional yeast or vegetarian cheese.
g. Accompany the Creole rice with vegetarian side dishes or salads.
4. Mediterranean Diet Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the aromatics.
b. Include a variety of Mediterranean vegetables such as tomatoes, bell peppers, artichokes, and olives.
c. Add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
d. Use whole grain rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients in the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
e. Include some chopped sundried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
f. Serve the Creole rice with a side of Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables.
g. Accompany the meal with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus.
5. Keto Diet Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Replace rice with cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative.
b. Choose fatty fish like salmon instead of smoked fish.
c. Use coconut oil or ghee for sautéing instead of vegetable oil.
d. Incorporate low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach.
e. Reduce the amount of onion used to keep the carb content lower.
f. Include spices like turmeric, cumin, and paprika for added flavor.
g. Serve the Creole rice alongside a keto-friendly side dish like grilled asparagus or avocado salad.
6. Heart Healthy Diet Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Use olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing instead of vegetable oil.
b. Include plenty of heart-healthy vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
c. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce sodium content in the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
d. Include lean proteins like skinless chicken or turkey breast instead of smoked fish.
e. Add garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor without adding excess salt.
f. Use whole grain rice for added fiber.
g. Serve the Creole rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
7. Paleo Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Use coconut oil or ghee for sautéing instead of vegetable oil.
b. Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.
c. Choose paleo-friendly smoked fish or omit it altogether.
d. Include plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
e. Use fresh herbs and spices like cilantro, basil, and paprika for flavor.
f. Serve the Creole rice with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a paleo-friendly salad.
g. Avoid any processed ingredients and focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
8. Low Carb Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Replace rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage as a low-carb alternative.
b. Use coconut oil or olive oil for sautéing the aromatics.
c. Choose low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
d. Opt for lean proteins such as skinless chicken or shrimp instead of smoked fish.
e. Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce sodium intake.
f. Include spices and herbs like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or thyme for added flavor.
g. Serve the Creole rice with a side of steamed broccoli or a green salad.
9. Whole 30 Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Use compliant broths such as homemade chicken or vegetable broth without added sugars or non-compliant ingredients.
b. Include plenty of fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
c. Use compliant protein sources like grilled chicken or shrimp instead of smoked fish.
d. Avoid any non-compliant seasonings or sauces and stick to herbs and spices.
e. Serve the Creole rice with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a mixed greens salad.
f. Ensure all ingredients used are Whole30 compliant, without any added sugars, grains, or dairy.
g. Focus on using fresh, whole ingredients for the dish.
10. Weight Watchers Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Choose lean proteins like skinless chicken breast or turkey breast instead of smoked fish.
b. Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the sodium content in the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
c. Incorporate a variety of zero-point vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
d. Limit the amount of oil used for sautéing by using a non-stick cooking spray.
e. Serve the Creole rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
f. Calculate the Smart Points value for the dish by considering the ingredients and portion sizes.
g. Adjust ingredient quantities to fit within your Smart Points allowance.
11. Low Fat Options: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Choose lean proteins like skinless chicken breast or turkey breast instead of smoked fish.
b. Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the sodium content.
c. Limit the amount of oil used for sautéing by using a non-stick cooking spray.
d. Include plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
e. Serve the Creole rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
f. Use reduced-fat or fat-free yogurt instead of full-fat options, if applicable.
g. Opt for whole grain rice for added fiber and nutrients.
12. Vegetable Variations: For the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
a. Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding carrots, peas, or corn.
b. Include a mix of colorful bell peppers for added flavor and visual appeal.
c. Experiment with different types of onions, like red or shallots, to enhance the flavor profile.
d. Add roasted or grilled vegetables as a topping or side dish to accompany the Creole rice.
e. Incorporate diced or cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness to the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe.
f. Include a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to add an earthy flavor.
g. Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives to garnish the dish and enhance the vegetable flavors.
FAQ About the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
How spicy is the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe?
The Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe is known for the spiciness, but the level of heat can be adjusted to your preference by using more or fewer chilies. It’s recommended to wear gloves when handling the chilies to avoid irritation to your skin.
Can I use dried chilies instead of fresh ones?
While fresh chilies are preferred for Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe, you can use dried chilies if fresh ones are not available. Soak the dried chilies in hot water for 10-15 minutes before using them in the recipe.
Can I freeze the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe?
The Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion the chili paste into small containers or freezer bags before freezing to make it easier to thaw and use.
What type of vinegar should I use?
The traditional vinegar used in Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe is palm vinegar, but you can use any type of vinegar that you have on hand, such as white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or apple cider vinegar.
Can I make the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe in advance?
Yes, the Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This makes it a convenient condiment to have on hand for adding spice and flavor to a variety of dishes.
Final Thoughts
Seychelles Chili Cakes are a popular condiment and ingredient in Seychellois cuisine. Made with fresh chilies, garlic, ginger, and other spices, they offer a unique and bold flavor that can be adjusted to your desired level of spiciness. The chili paste can be used in a variety of dishes, and can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Seychelles Chili Cakes are a versatile and delicious addition to any kitchen.
Seychelles Chili Cakes Recipe
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean jar for storing the chili paste
- The best way to store Seychelles Chili Cakes is to transfer the chili paste to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The chili paste can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups chilies finely chopped fresh green
- 1 cup onions finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3/4 cup water adjust as needed
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Preparing the Batter:
- a. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, turmeric powder, salt, and ground black pepper.
- b. Whisk the dry ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.
- c. Add the finely chopped green chilies, onions, and fresh cilantro to the bowl.
- d. Gradually pour in the water while stirring the mixture.
- e. Continue adding water until a thick, smooth batter forms.
- f. Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes.
Heating the Oil:
- a. Place a deep frying pan or pot on the stove.
- b. Pour enough vegetable oil into the pan to ensure the fritters will be fully submerged.
- c. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (180°C).
- d. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil's temperature.
- e. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent frying temperature.
- f. Allow the oil to fully heat before moving on to the next step.
Shaping and Frying the Fritters:
- a. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
- b. Fry a few fritters at a time, ensuring they have enough space to float and cook evenly.
- c. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
- d. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip the fritters to ensure even frying.
- e. Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- f. Continue shaping and frying the remaining batter in batches until all the fritters are cooked.
Draining and Cooling:
- a. Allow the fried fritters to drain on the paper towels for a few minutes.
- b. Gently blot the fritters with additional paper towels to remove any excess oil.
- c. Transfer the fritters to a wire rack to cool completely.
- d. Let the fritters cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
- e. The fritters should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- f. Avoid overcrowding the fritters on the wire rack to maintain their crispiness.
Serving Suggestions:
- a. Arrange the Seychelles Gateaux Piment on a serving platter or plate.
- b. Serve the fritters as an appetizer or snack with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as tomato chutney or yogurt-based dip.
- c. Garnish the platter with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.
- d. Encourage guests to enjoy the fritters while they are still warm and crispy.
- e. Provide small serving utensils or toothpicks for easy picking and dipping.
- f. Consider serving the Gateaux Piment alongside other Seychellois dishes or as part of a buffet spread.
