Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
1/2 cup diced cooked ham (or cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetarian alternatives)
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (or chives)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until well combined.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
2. Add Fillings:
Add Cheese and Fillings: Fold in the shredded cheese, diced cooked ham (or other protein), diced bell peppers, chopped green onions (or chives), and chopped parsley (if using). Mix gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Spoon Batter: Drop spoonfuls of batter into the skillet, using about 1/4 cup of batter for each fritter. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon to form a round shape.
Fry Until Golden: Cook the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
Repeat: Add more olive oil to the skillet as needed and continue cooking the remaining batter in batches until all fritters are cooked.
4. Serve:
Drain and Serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Enjoy: Serve the breakfast fritters warm, either plain or with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or your favorite dipping sauce.