Gateau Piment

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together, then add the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing until combined. Add the water gradually while mixing to create a thick but pourable batter with no visible lumps.
2. Fold the minced onions, hot peppers, garlic, and cilantro if using into the batter, mixing gently but thoroughly until evenly distributed throughout. The batter should be spicy from the peppers and aromatic from the onions and garlic.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C) until shimmering. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop rounded spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Fry the gateau piment for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot as a spicy fritter or appetizer.