These Cauliflower Fritters are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional fritters, offering a crispy exterior with a soft and flavorful interior. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or light meal, these fritters combine the mild taste of cauliflower with savory Parmesan, fresh parsley, and garlic. They’re easy to make and can be served hot, making them an excellent addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Directions
- Steam the cauliflower: Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, then mash them with a potato masher until smooth.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed cauliflower, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Form the fritters: Scoop the cauliflower mixture into the skillet to form fritters, pressing them down gently with a spatula to flatten them.
- Cook the fritters: Cook the fritters for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the fritters hot, and enjoy as a snack or side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy cauliflower fritters: Add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the mixture for a bit of heat.
- Cheese variations: Swap the Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.
- Add-ins: You can add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the fritter mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegan option: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to crisp them back up, or use an air fryer for a quick and even reheat.
10 FAQs
- Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, to reduce the oil content.
- Can I make the fritters ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and shape the fritters ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mashing.
- How can I make these fritters crispier? Make sure to use enough oil for frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan, which can cause the fritters to steam rather than fry.
- Can I use a food processor to mash the cauliflower? Yes, a food processor can make quick work of mashing the cauliflower, but be careful not to over-process it into a puree.
- How do I know when the fritters are done cooking? The fritters are done when they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, and they should hold together well when flipped.
- Can I freeze the fritters? Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters. Let them cool, then store in a single layer in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
- What can I serve with cauliflower fritters? These fritters pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, tzatziki, or marinara, and they also make a great side dish with roasted meats or a fresh salad.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
- Are cauliflower fritters gluten-free? Yes, these fritters are naturally gluten-free, as long as the breadcrumbs used are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cauliflower Fritters are a tasty, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your craving for something crispy and savory. With the rich flavor of Parmesan, fresh parsley, and garlic, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side. They are versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy these crispy bites the next time you want to serve something healthy yet indulgent!