Crispy Cabbage Fritters are a delicious and easy way to transform humble cabbage into a savory, crunchy snack or side dish. These fritters are made by combining finely shredded cabbage, onions, garlic, eggs, and flour into a simple batter that’s pan-fried until golden brown. The addition of ground red pepper adds a hint of spice, while the eggs help bind everything together, creating a crispy yet tender texture. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as an appetizer, these fritters are a great way to use up extra cabbage and bring some variety to your meal planning. Whether you’re a fan of cabbage or just looking for a new way to enjoy your veggies, this recipe is both flavorful and satisfying. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to making delicious Crispy Cabbage Fritters!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

500 g (1.1 lbs) cabbage, finely shredded

Vegetable oil (for frying)
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced

3 eggs, beaten
4 tablespoons (60 g) flour
1 teaspoon (8 g) salt

1 teaspoon (4 g) ground red pepper

Making It Step by Step:

Prepare the Cabbage:
- Start by finely shredding the cabbage. You can use a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor to achieve fine, thin shreds.
- Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl and set it aside.
Cook the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once cooked, remove the onion and garlic mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Prepare the Batter:
- In the large bowl with the shredded cabbage, add the cooked onions and garlic.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl and beat them until fully mixed.
- Add the flour, salt, and ground red pepper to the mixture.
- Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and able to hold its shape.

Shape the Fritters:
- Use a spoon or your hands to form small patties from the cabbage mixture. You can make them about the size of a golf ball and flatten them slightly into a patty shape. Each fritter should be about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Repeat this process with the remaining mixture until all the fritters are formed.

Fry the Fritters:
- In a large frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small bit of the batter into the oil – if it sizzles, the oil is ready), carefully place the cabbage fritters in the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry them in batches if necessary.
- Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them over to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve:
- Serve the fritters hot, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. A yogurt-based sauce, sour cream, or spicy ketchup works well with the fritters.

Cooking Tips:

Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the fritters. If the oil is too cool, the fritters will absorb more oil and become greasy rather than crispy.

Shredding Cabbage: For a finer texture, ensure that your cabbage is shredded as thinly as possible. You can use a food processor to speed up this process.
Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add more ground red pepper for a spicier kick, or throw in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh flavor boost.
Fritter Size: If you want to make smaller, bite-sized fritters, you can adjust the size of each patty. Just be mindful of reducing the frying time to avoid burning.

Storage:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re warm and crispy again.
Freezing: You can also freeze these fritters for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Nutritional Facts (per fritter):

Calories: 80-100 kcal
Protein: 3-4 grams

Fat: 6-7 grams (depending on the amount of oil absorbed during frying)
Carbohydrates: 7-9 grams
Fiber: 2 grams

Sodium: 200 mg

FAQs:

Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake the fritters for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Can I use other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from watery vegetables like zucchini.

What can I serve with the fritters?
- These fritters pair well with a variety of sauces such as tzatziki, sour cream, or a spicy chili dipping sauce. They also go great with a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats.
Can I make the fritter mixture ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before frying. Just be sure to give it a good stir before forming the patties.
Why are my fritters falling apart?
- If your fritters are falling apart, it could be due to too much moisture in the cabbage mixture. Try squeezing out excess water from the cabbage before mixing. Adding an extra spoonful of flour can also help bind the ingredients together.

Conclusion:

Crispy Cabbage Fritters are not only a delicious way to enjoy vegetables, but they’re also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fritters are sure to satisfy with their crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful filling. The simple ingredients of cabbage, onion, garlic, and eggs are elevated by the addition of a touch of spice from the ground red pepper, making each bite full of flavor and texture. Plus, with the flexibility to customize the recipe and adjust the seasoning to your liking, this is a dish you can easily make your own. Enjoy these fritters hot and crispy, and don’t forget to pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, Crispy Cabbage Fritters are a great addition to your recipe collection!