Cabbage is a humble vegetable with immense versatility, and when combined with fresh carrots, onions, and a few simple ingredients, it transforms into a deliciously savory fritter that is both nutritious and satisfying. These Cabbage and Carrot Fritters are an easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re light yet filling, packed with flavor, and incredibly customizable. Topped with fresh tomato slices and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Half a medium-sized cabbage (about 300-350 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- Half an onion (about 50 g)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tomato slices and grated cheese for garnish
- Vegetable oil for frying
Steps to Make Savory Cabbage and Carrot Fritters
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. If the cabbage seems a bit tough, you can massage it with a small amount of salt to soften it.
- Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor.
- Finely dice the half onion or grate it if you prefer a smoother texture in the fritters.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and diced onion.
- Crack one egg into the bowl and add the tablespoon of sour cream. Stir everything together until the egg and sour cream are well incorporated with the vegetables.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning depending on your preference.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will also allow the cabbage to release some moisture, which helps bind the fritters.
- Form the Fritters:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil to grease the pan.
- Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small portions of the cabbage mixture and form them into round patties or fritters. Press them gently to flatten slightly.
- Place the fritters into the heated pan, leaving some space between each one to ensure they cook evenly. You may need to fry them in batches depending on the size of your pan.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking them apart.
- Once both sides are cooked and crispy, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Garnish with Tomato and Cheese:
- While the fritters are still warm, place thin slices of tomato on top of each fritter.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well) over the tomatoes.
- Return the fritters to the pan for a minute or two, just until the cheese melts slightly and forms a gooey, delicious topping.
- Serve:
- Serve the fritters warm, garnished with extra tomato slices or herbs if desired. These fritters can be eaten on their own or paired with a side salad, dipping sauce, or even sour cream for an extra creamy finish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Sugar: 3 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these fritters gluten-free? Absolutely! This recipe doesn’t call for any flour, but if you’d like to add some for extra binding, you can use gluten-free flour such as rice flour or almond flour to maintain a gluten-free option.
- What type of cheese should I use for the garnish? You can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or even parmesan. Each type will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
- Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them? Yes, if you prefer a healthier, oil-free version, you can bake the fritters. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Can I add other vegetables to the mixture? Definitely! These fritters are versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables like grated zucchini, sweet potato, or spinach to the batter for added flavor and nutrition.
Tips for Making the Best Cabbage and Carrot Fritters
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the fritters, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the fritters to cook evenly and ensures they become crispy on the outside.
- Drain the Cabbage: If your cabbage is very watery, make sure to drain or squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the batter. This will prevent the fritters from becoming soggy.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: Using a non-stick or well-seasoned pan will make it easier to flip the fritters without sticking or breaking them.
- Experiment with Herbs: Dill, parsley, or cilantro can add a fresh burst of flavor to these fritters. Feel free to add your favorite herbs to the batter for extra depth.
Storage Tips
- In the Refrigerator: You can store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- In the Freezer: If you want to store the fritters for longer, you can freeze them. Allow the fritters to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container, separating each layer with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven.
Conclusion
These Savory Cabbage and Carrot Fritters are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a fun, crispy form. They’re simple to make, versatile, and full of flavor. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. The addition of tomato slices and melted cheese elevates these fritters to the next level, making them even more satisfying and visually appealing. Plus, they store well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself making these fritters again and again!