Cauliflower Fritters

These cauliflower fritters are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy cauliflower, turning a simple vegetable into a flavorful snack or side dish. Made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic, these fritters are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Theyโ€™re an easy and nutritious option for anyone looking for a tasty way to eat more vegetables.

Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes


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Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower (700g)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3 eggs
  • Pepper mixture, to taste
  • Chopped chives
  • Chopped dill
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 40g (โ…“ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 70g (ยฝ cup) flour
  • Oil for frying

Directions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
    • Cut the cauliflower into florets.
    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cauliflower florets for 10 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool.
  2. Prepare the Batter:
    • Once the cauliflower is cool, mash it in a large bowl until slightly chunky.
    • Add the eggs, pepper mixture, salt, chopped chives, chopped dill, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and flour. Mix well until the ingredients are combined into a batter.
  3. Fry the Fritters:
    • Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-low heat.
    • Scoop a spoonful of the cauliflower mixture and shape it into a patty.
    • Fry the patties in the hot oil, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
    • Once done, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with a yogurt dip or garlic aioli.
  • Pair with a green salad for a complete meal.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice on top for an extra burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips

  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture.
  • For added flavor, mix in some chopped onions or bell peppers into the batter.
  • If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more flour to thicken it.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamins: Cauliflower is a good source of vitamins C and K, supporting immune health and bone strength.
  • High in Protein: Eggs and Parmesan cheese provide essential protein, making these fritters satisfying.
  • Low-Carb Option: A great alternative for those following a low-carb diet.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Perfect for a vegetarian diet.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Low Carb: Naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.

Nutritional Facts (Per Fritter)

  • Calories: 100
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: To reheat, fry them in a pan or bake in the oven until warm and crispy.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Quick and simple, perfect for weeknight meals or meal prepping.
  • Healthy and Delicious: A nutritious way to enjoy vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
  • Versatile: Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your favorite dips.
  • Family-Friendly: These fritters are a hit with both kids and adults.

Conclusion

These cauliflower fritters are a delightful and healthy way to bring more vegetables into your diet. With their crisp texture and rich flavor, they are perfect for any occasionโ€”whether as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. Theyโ€™re easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite herbs and seasonings, making them a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Try them today and see for yourself how delicious cauliflower can be!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
    Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
  2. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
    Yes, thaw and drain the frozen cauliflower before mashing it for the recipe.
  3. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
    You can substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese for a vegan option or use another grated hard cheese like cheddar.
  4. How can I make the fritters spicier?
    Add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeรฑos to the batter for a spicy kick.
  5. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
  6. Can I freeze the fritters?
    Yes, once cooked, allow the fritters to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Reheat from frozen in the oven or pan.
  7. What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?
    Yogurt-based dips, tzatziki, garlic aioli, or even a spicy tomato salsa pair well.
  8. Can I replace the eggs for a vegan version?
    You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
  9. Can I add other vegetables to the fritters?
    Yes, grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach can be added for extra veggies.
  10. Whatโ€™s the best oil to use for frying?
    Use oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.