Cauliflower fritters are a delicious, quick, and healthy snack or side dish. Made with simple ingredients, these fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re perfect for serving as an appetizer, light lunch, or even as a savory breakfast option!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Cauliflower florets: 3 cups, finely chopped or grated
- All-purpose flour: ½ cup (or use chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated (optional but adds flavor)
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (or substitute with cilantro)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil or vegetable oil: For frying
Directions
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Chop the cauliflower into small florets or grate it using a box grater. Alternatively, pulse it in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, then stir in the flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and baking powder. Mix until combined.
- Add the grated cauliflower to the batter and mix until well coated. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Form the Fritters:
- Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of the cauliflower mixture and form into small patties or rounds.
- Cook the Fritters:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom.
- Fry the fritters for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, sour cream, or a spicy aioli.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a squeeze of lemon.
- Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a filling in a pita wrap with lettuce and sauce.
- Top with a poached egg for a hearty breakfast.
- Offer as a party appetizer with a variety of dips.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, add grated onion or chopped green onions to the batter.
- Ensure the oil is hot before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Make the fritters smaller for bite-sized appetizers.
- To bake instead of frying, place fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and healthy fats.
- Parsley: Contains vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace flour with almond flour to lower the carb content.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 2 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and a short prep time make this a go-to recipe.
- Healthy and Nutritious: A great way to include more vegetables in your diet.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences.
- Crispy and Flavorful: Perfectly crispy on the outside with a tender inside.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Crispy Cauliflower Fritters are a versatile and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you serve them as a snack, side, or main course, their delicious flavor and texture are sure to win over even picky eaters.
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With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, these fritters are perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Whip up a batch and discover your new favorite way to enjoy cauliflower!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture before using.
- Can I bake instead of frying? Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- What’s the best dipping sauce? Tzatziki, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce pair well.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prepare and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to cook.
- What can I use instead of eggs? Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, grated zucchini or carrot can be added. Squeeze out excess moisture first.
- How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart? Ensure the batter is not too wet and forms a cohesive mixture.
- Can I use a food processor to chop the cauliflower? Yes, pulse the florets until finely chopped.
- Are these suitable for keto? Yes, replace the flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
- Can I serve these cold? While best enjoyed warm, they can also be served cold in wraps or salads.