If you’re looking for a satisfying, healthy alternative to meat, these cabbage fritters will quickly become a favorite. This recipe transforms simple cabbage into a deliciously savory dish, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with a refreshing yogurt and cucumber sauce, these cabbage fritters are packed with flavor, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Fritters:

500g cabbage: Finely shredded or chopped. Cabbage provides the base for these fritters, giving them a tender and slightly sweet flavor.
Vegetable oil: For cooking the onions and frying the fritters.

2 onions: Finely chopped for added sweetness and texture.
3 cloves of garlic: Minced for a burst of flavor.
3 eggs: These act as a binder, holding the fritter mixture together.

4 tablespoons of flour (60g): Helps to bind the cabbage mixture and gives the fritters a crispy exterior.
1 teaspoon of salt (8g): Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1 teaspoon of ground red pepper (4g): Adds a mild heat and color.

1 teaspoon of black pepper (4g): For a subtle spice and depth of flavor.

For Frying:

Vegetable oil: Enough to fry the fritters until golden and crispy.

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons of yogurt (75g): A creamy base for the sauce that balances the spice of the fritters.

2 sprigs of dill: Finely chopped for a fresh, herbal flavor.
1 cucumber (grated): Adds a refreshing crunch and texture.
Red powdered pepper: For sprinkling on top of the sauce for a pop of color and heat.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Onions

Shred the Cabbage: Begin by finely shredding the cabbage. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to get the cabbage finely chopped.
Cook the Onions: In a large pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Fritter Batter

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, cooked onions, and garlic. Crack in the eggs and mix well to coat the cabbage evenly.

Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the flour, salt, red pepper, and black pepper into the cabbage mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a cohesive batter.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan and heat over medium-high heat.
Form Fritters: Take a spoonful of the cabbage mixture and gently shape it into a patty. Carefully place it in the hot oil.

Fry: Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
Drain: Once the fritters are done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Mix the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, grated cucumber, and finely chopped dill. Stir until well mixed.

Season and Garnish: Sprinkle a little red powdered pepper on top for a bit of color and spice.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Hot: These cabbage fritters are best served warm, straight from the pan. Plate them alongside the yogurt and cucumber sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Pair with Sides: You can enjoy these fritters on their own or pair them with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a more complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 350mg

Cooking Tips:

Finer Texture: If you prefer a finer texture, you can pulse the cabbage in a food processor instead of shredding it by hand.
Spice Adjustments: If you’re not a fan of spice, reduce or omit the ground red pepper. Conversely, if you like things spicier, feel free to add more or include chili flakes.
Crispier Fritters: To achieve an even crispier texture, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritters. If the oil is too cold, the fritters will absorb more oil and become soggy.

Gluten-Free Option: You can easily make these fritters gluten-free by substituting the regular flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or oven to regain their crispiness.
Freezing: These fritters can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Place the cooked and cooled fritters on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot pan or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
A: Yes, to make a healthier version, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
A: You can experiment with adding grated carrots, zucchini, or even spinach to the mixture. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from watery vegetables like zucchini.
Q: Can I use a different sauce for serving?
A: Absolutely! While the yogurt-cucumber sauce pairs beautifully with these fritters, you can also serve them with sour cream, tahini sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

Conclusion:

These cabbage fritters are a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish. The combination of tender cabbage, savory onions, and spices creates a fritter that’s crispy on the outside yet soft and flavorful on the inside. Paired with the refreshing yogurt and cucumber sauce, they make for a nutritious and comforting meal. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or a snack, these cabbage fritters are sure to impress. Give them a try, and you might just find yourself preferring cabbage to meat!