Snacks and Sides

Authentic Singaporean Begedil Recipe

A beloved staple in Malay and Mamak households across Singapore, Begedil are savory potato patties enriched with fried shallots and aromatic Chinese celery. These patties are traditionally deep-fried after being dipped in a silky egg wash, creating a distinctive lacy crust that shatters to reveal a fluffy, spiced interior.

Begedil
Prep
20 min
Cook
25 min
Serves
4
Level
Medium
Per serving
245 kcal

Method

  1. Heat oil in a wok or deep pan. Fry the potato slices until they are cooked through and lightly golden. Do not boil them, as frying prevents the Begedil from becoming too mushy.

  2. Drain the fried potatoes on paper towels and mash them while they are still hot until smooth.

  3. In a small pan with a teaspoon of oil, sauté the minced meat until fully cooked and slightly browned. Drain any excess fat.

  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cooked meat, fried shallots, Chinese celery, spring onions, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until the aromatics are evenly distributed.

  5. Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a round ball, then flatten it slightly to form a thick disc. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

  6. Heat the oil used for frying potatoes over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a small bowl with a pinch of salt.

  7. Dip each potato patty into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated.

  8. Gently slide the patties into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown and a 'lacy' egg crust has formed. Drain on a wire rack and serve warm with sambal kicap.

Notes

Always fry the potatoes rather than boiling them; boiling adds too much moisture which causes the patties to fall apart during frying.

Ensure the mashed potatoes are cooled slightly before shaping, but mash them while hot for the smoothest texture.

To get the classic 'lacy' look, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the egg-coated patties.

If the mixture feels too soft to shape, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.

Questions

Can I make Begedil without meat?
Yes, meatless Begedil is very common. Simply omit the minced beef or chicken and add an extra tablespoon of fried shallots for flavor.
Why do my Begedil break apart in the oil?
This usually happens if the potato mixture has too much moisture (from boiling instead of frying) or if the oil isn't hot enough. Ensuring a thorough egg wash coating also helps hold the patty together.
What is the best potato to use?
Russet or Holland potatoes are best because of their high starch content, which results in a fluffier interior.
Can I air fry Begedil?
You can, but you won't get the signature lacy egg crust. If air frying, brush the patties with oil and skip the egg wash, or the egg will just drip off before setting.

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