Cheesy vegetable fritters are a delicious and crunchy snack that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the rich taste of melted cheese. Perfectly seasoned and lightly fried, these fritters are not only quick and easy to make but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, appetizer, or a side dish, these cheesy vegetable fritters will be a hit with everyone. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, and they become the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped spinach
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Grate the carrots, zucchini, and finely chop the spinach and onion. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel to prevent the fritters from becoming soggy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, zucchini, chopped spinach, and onion. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt during cooking and provide a gooey and flavorful bite.
- To bind the mixture, add the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch to the mixture. These ingredients will help bind the fritters together and ensure a crisp texture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the breadcrumbs to the mixture, stirring until the mixture is thick enough to form small patties. The breadcrumbs help give the fritters a golden and crunchy exterior.
- Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- While the oil is heating, form the fritter mixture into small patties, about 1 to 2 tablespoons per fritter. Press them slightly to flatten the shape.
- Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small amount of the fritter mixture into the pan – if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place the fritters into the pan, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the fritters in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking the fritters.
- Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
- Serve the cheesy vegetable fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, yogurt, or a spicy chutney. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful fritters as a snack or appetizer!
These cheesy vegetable fritters are an irresistible treat with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. They make a wonderful choice for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. With the added bonus of being both vegetarian and customizable based on available vegetables, this recipe is a great option for families and gatherings. Feel free to experiment by adding different veggies like bell peppers, corn, or peas to suit your taste!