Homemade Turkish Style Feta Cheese Fritters

1. Prepare the Fritter Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta (if using), eggs, parsley, dill, and oregano.
   • Add the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The batter should be thick and sticky, but if it’s too stiff, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is spreadable but still holds its shape.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • In a deep frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can check if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter into the pan. If it sizzles and starts to cook immediately, the oil is ready.
3. Form the Fritters:
   • Lightly flour your hands or a spoon to shape the fritters. Take a spoonful of the cheese mixture and gently form it into a small round or oval patty. You can make them as large or small as you like, but traditionally, they are bite-sized.
   • Carefully place the formed fritters into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Fry the Fritters:
   • Fry the fritters in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them gently.
   • Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey if you like. They are also delicious with a side of fresh salad or as part of a mezze platter.

Tips:

• Feta: If you’re using a very salty feta, be sure to taste the batter before adding extra salt to avoid making the fritters too salty.
• Baking Powder: The baking powder helps make the fritters light and fluffy, so don’t skip it.
• Herbs: You can experiment with other fresh herbs such as mint or thyme to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Make-Ahead: You can make the fritters in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a warm oven to keep them crispy.

These Homemade Turkish-Style Feta Cheese Fritters are perfect for sharing with family and friends and are sure to become a favorite snack or appetizer!