These Baked Vegetable Muffin Fritters are a fun and easy way to enjoy a healthy snack or light meal. Packed with zucchini, carrot, and onion, they are baked in a muffin dish, providing a unique shape and easy portioning. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are full of flavor and perfect for meal prepping. These diet-friendly fritters are as delicious as they are nutritious!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 Zucchini, grated
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 1 Carrot, grated
- Vegetable Fat (for greasing the muffin dish)
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 4 tablespoons Water
- 1 Egg
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- Salt, to taste (for batter)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté the grated zucchini, chopped onion, and grated carrot with vegetable fat over medium heat for about 10 minutes until softened. Season with salt to taste.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, egg, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth.
- Combine and Fill Muffin Dish: Mix the sautéed vegetables into the batter. Grease a muffin dish with vegetable fat, then spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before removing from the muffin dish. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a snack or part of a breakfast spread.
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips
- Grate vegetables finely for smoother fritters.
- Use a non-stick muffin dish or line cups with paper liners for easy removal.
- Add herbs and spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
- Avoid overfilling muffin cups for even baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low in Calories: A light option for any meal.
- Rich in Fiber: Aids digestion with zucchini, carrot, and onion.
- High in Vitamins: Provides essential vitamins A and C for immune health.
- Low in Fat: Baked instead of fried for lower fat content.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Nut-Free: No nuts in this recipe.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Portion-Controlled: Easy to portion for meal prep.
- Diet-Friendly: Low in calories and fat.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Delicious: Crispy exterior and tender inside for a healthy treat.
Conclusion
These Baked Vegetable Muffin Fritters offer a simple and healthy way to enjoy your vegetables. Their muffin shape makes them easy to portion for grab-and-go snacks or light meals. The combination of zucchini, carrot, and onion creates a flavorful and nutritious dish that is satisfying and diet-friendly. Whether you need a healthy snack or a side dish, these fritters are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other vegetables in these fritters?
Yes, try grated potatoes, sweet potatoes, or spinach. - How do I keep the fritters from sticking to the muffin dish?
Use a non-stick muffin dish or line with paper liners, greasing well. - Can I add cheese to the batter?
Yes, shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan can enhance flavor. - Can I fry these fritters instead of baking them?
Yes, pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden brown on each side. - Is there a substitute for the egg?
Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water). - Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the batter for a few hours before use. - How can I make the fritters spicier?
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the batter. - Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. - What dip goes well with these fritters?
A yogurt-based dip, tzatziki, or garlic aioli pairs well. - How do I prevent the fritters from becoming soggy?
Drain the vegetables well before mixing, and bake at recommended temperature for crispiness.