Crispy Cabbage Fritters: A Treasured Family Recipe

I’m excited to share this generations-old recipe for crispy cabbage fritters that transforms humble ingredients into something absolutely extraordinary. The combination of tender cabbage, eggs, and aromatic seasonings creates golden-brown patties that are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender inside. This recipe has been passed down through families, cherished for both its simplicity and incredible flavor.

Prep Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 (makes approximately 12-15 fritters)

Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 1/2 medium cabbage (approximately 500g/17.6 oz), finely shredded
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 medium onions, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 tablespoons (40g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Olive oil for frying

For the Yogurt Sauce

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 small cucumber, finely diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

1. Remove the core from the cabbage and shred it finely
2. Place shredded cabbage in a large bowl
3. Add 1 teaspoon salt and massage gently
4. Let stand for 10 minutes to release excess moisture
5. Drain well and squeeze out any remaining water

2. Prepare the Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well combined
2. Add finely diced onions and minced garlic
3. Stir in flour, paprika, black pepper, and chili flakes
4. Add the drained cabbage
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined

3. Cooking the Fritters

1. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat
2. Drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture into the hot oil
3. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown
5. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding
6. Place cooked fritters on paper towels to drain excess oil

4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

1. Mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with diced cucumber
2. Add chopped parsley
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste
4. Refrigerate until ready to serve

Pro Tips for Perfect Fritters

• Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the cabbage
• Maintain medium heat to ensure fritters cook through without burning
• Don’t flip the fritters more than once to achieve optimal crispiness
• Keep cooked fritters warm in a low-temperature oven (170°F/75°C) while cooking remaining batches

Nutrition Information (per serving, about 3 fritters)

• Calories: 185
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Iron: 2mg
• Potassium: 320mg

Storage Instructions

• Store cooled fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a preheated 350°F/175°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness
• The yogurt sauce can be stored separately for up to 2 days

Serving Suggestions

Serve these golden fritters hot with the cool yogurt sauce on the side. They make an excellent:

• Light main course with a fresh green salad
• Appetizer for gatherings
• Side dish for grilled meats
• Healthy snack option

These crispy cabbage fritters are best enjoyed immediately while hot and crunchy. The contrast between the crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior makes them absolutely irresistible. The accompanying yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the warm, savory fritters.