Crispy Zucchini Fritters: A Delightful Vegetable Sensation

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Crispy Zucchini Fritters

Introduction

Discover the ultimate vegetable dish that will make even meat lovers forget about their favorite protein! These golden, crispy zucchini fritters are a game-changing recipe that transforms humble vegetables into a mouth-watering delicacy. With a perfect blend of herbs, cheese, and a crunchy exterior, these fritters are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Fritters

  • 2 medium zucchini, grated
  • 5 large eggs
  • 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 70g all-purpose flour
  • 100g breadcrumbs
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 pickled cucumber, diced (optional)

Seasoning

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Provencal herbs
  • 1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

  • 3 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Cooking

  • Olive oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables
    • Grate zucchini and carrots
    • Finely chop red onion, bell peppers, and garlic
    • Dice pickled cucumber
  2. Vegetable Preparation
    • Heat olive oil in a pan
    • Sauté onion for 1-2 minutes
    • Add carrots, cook for 2 minutes
    • Add bell peppers, cook for 2 minutes
    • Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute
  3. Make the Vegetable Base
    • Mix sautéed vegetables
    • Add 1 tsp sugar
    • Cook for 5-7 minutes
    • Let cool slightly
  4. Prepare the Fritter Mixture
    • In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini
    • Add eggs, Parmesan cheese, flour
    • Mix in sautéed vegetables
    • Season with salt, pepper, Provencal herbs, paprika
    • Let mixture rest for 15 minutes
  5. Sauce Preparation
    • Mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic
    • Set aside
  6. Cooking the Fritters
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet
    • Shape mixture into patties
    • Roll patties in breadcrumbs
    • Dip in egg mixture
    • Fry over medium heat for 5 minutes
    • Turn and cook for additional 3 minutes
    • Achieve golden-brown color

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving
  • Protein: 12-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-20g
  • Fat: 15-18g
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Squeeze excess moisture from zucchini to ensure crispy fritters
  • Use a non-stick pan for easier cooking
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying
  • Maintain medium heat for even cooking

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
  • Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option
  • Add grated cheese inside the mixture for extra flavor
  • Use different herbs like basil or thyme

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make these fritters ahead of time? Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  2. Are these fritters healthy? They’re packed with vegetables and can be a nutritious meal when baked instead of fried.
  3. Can I freeze zucchini fritters? Yes, cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
  4. What can I serve with these fritters? Excellent with Greek yogurt sauce, salad, or as a side dish.
  5. How do I keep fritters crispy? Drain on paper towels and serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate cooked fritters for up to 3 days
  • Reheat in oven at 180°C for 10 minutes to restore crispiness
  • Best enjoyed fresh and hot
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