These savory cabbage and onion fritters are the perfect combination of crispy, tender, and flavorful. With the addition of garlic, sweet paprika, and a creamy yogurt sauce, these fritters offer a delightful meal or snack. They’re quick to make, versatile, and can be served as an appetizer or a side dish.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Eastern European
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
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Cabbage (shredded) – 1 small head or about 500g (17.6 oz)
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2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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2 onions (finely chopped)
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3 eggs
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Salt (to taste)
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Pepper (to taste)
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Sweet paprika (1 tsp)
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5 tbsp flour
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3 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream (for the batter)
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Parsley (fresh, chopped for garnish)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
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Pickles (finely chopped)
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French mustard (1 tbsp)
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Sweet pepper flakes (a pinch, optional for heat)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Cabbage and Onions
Shred the cabbage finely and chop the onions. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with the chopped onions. Add a pinch of salt and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to soften the cabbage. -
Sauté the Garlic and Onion
In a frying pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté them until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. -
Prepare the Fritter Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the 3 eggs, then add the sautéed garlic and onions, sweet paprika, and pepper. Mix in the flour and Greek yogurt or sour cream. Stir until you have a smooth batter. Add the cabbage and onion mixture to the batter, and stir everything together to combine well. -
Fry the Fritters
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of the fritter batter into the pan, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry the fritters in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. -
Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the finely chopped pickles, French mustard, and a pinch of sweet pepper flakes (if using). Add 3 tbsp of Greek yogurt or sour cream and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. -
Serve and Garnish
Serve the crispy cabbage and onion fritters hot, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 250
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Protein: 6 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Carbohydrates: 20 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sugar: 5 g
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Sodium: 350 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cabbage fritters are a staple in Eastern European and Mediterranean cuisines. This dish is a great way to use cabbage in a creative and flavorful way. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish to a main meal. The addition of garlic yogurt sauce adds a creamy and tangy contrast that complements the savory fritters.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy: With minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal or snack ready in under 45 minutes.
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Flavor-packed: The combination of sweet paprika, garlic, and sautéed onions makes these fritters incredibly flavorful.
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Versatile: You can customize the fritters by adding other ingredients like carrots or zucchini to the batter.
Health Benefits
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Cabbage: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, cabbage supports immune health and digestion.
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Garlic: Known for its antimicrobial properties, garlic can help boost the immune system and improve heart health.
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Greek yogurt: A great source of protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt helps support digestive health.
Serving Suggestions
These fritters can be served with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup. They also make a great appetizer when served with dipping sauces like the garlic yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato dip.
Cooking Tips
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the fritters in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
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Drain excess oil: After frying, let the fritters rest on paper towels to absorb any extra oil and keep them crispy.
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Use a non-stick pan: A non-stick frying pan makes flipping the fritters easier and ensures they don’t stick.
Variations to Try
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Add cheese: Mix in some grated cheese (like Parmesan or mozzarella) into the batter for extra flavor and creaminess.
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Spicy version: Add chopped chilies or chili powder to the batter for a spicy kick.
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Vegan version: Use a plant-based yogurt and a flaxseed or chia egg replacement for a vegan alternative.
Conclusion
These cabbage and onion fritters with garlic yogurt sauce are a delicious, crunchy, and satisfying dish. Perfect for any meal or snack, they offer a balance of fresh vegetables, savory spices, and creamy dipping sauce. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or on their own, these fritters are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fritters ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet before serving. -
Can I use other vegetables in the fritter batter?
Yes, you can add grated carrots, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes to the batter for a different flavor and texture. -
Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version. -
How do I keep the fritters crispy?
Make sure to drain the fritters on paper towels after frying and avoid stacking them, as this can make them soggy. -
Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters on a lined baking sheet at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. -
How can I make the fritters spicier?
Add more sweet pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the batter for a spicier flavor. -
What can I serve these fritters with?
Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup. They also pair well with dips like sour cream, hummus, or salsa. -
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the fritters before frying them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, and then store in an airtight container. Fry them when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use olive oil, sunflower oil, or any other vegetable oil that has a high smoke point. -
Can I add meat to the fritters?
Yes, you can add ground meat such as chicken or beef to the batter for a more substantial dish. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it in.