Crispy Cabbage Fritters with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

These golden-brown cabbage fritters are inspired by Eastern European cuisine, combining the humble cabbage with aromatic herbs and spices. Paired with a cooling Greek-style tzatziki sauce, this dish creates a perfect fusion of flavors that’s both economical and delicious.

Time Requirements

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 (about 12-14 fritters)

Ingredients

For the Fritters

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) green cabbage, finely shredded
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 4 tablespoons (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion (200g), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot (120g), grated
• 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
• 1½ teaspoons (7.5g) sea salt
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) sweet paprika

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 250g (1 cup) Greek yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, finely grated and drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Shred cabbage finely using a sharp knife or mandoline.
2. Place in large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt.
3. Let stand 15 minutes to release moisture.
4. Meanwhile, finely chop onion and grate carrot.
5. Squeeze cabbage thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
6. Mix with chopped onion and grated carrot.

Making the Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat eggs until well combined.
2. Add flour gradually, whisking to prevent lumps.
3. Stir in minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Add vegetable mixture to batter.
5. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Cooking the Fritters

1. Heat oil and butter in large skillet over medium heat.
2. Drop ¼ cup portions of mixture into pan.
3. Flatten gently with spatula to about ½-inch thickness.
4. Fry 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
6. Keep warm in 200°F (95°C) oven while cooking remaining batches.

Preparing Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate cucumber using fine grater.
2. Place in clean kitchen towel and squeeze out moisture.
3. In medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt with drained cucumber.
4. Add minced garlic and chopped dill.
5. Stir in olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating

• Store fritters in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat in 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
• Keep tzatziki sauce refrigerated up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze either component.

Recipe Variations

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives to fritters
• Include grated potato for extra crispiness
• Use different spice blends (Cajun, Mediterranean)
• Make sauce with mint instead of dill
• Add grated zucchini to the mixture

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (2 fritters with sauce):

• Calories: 185
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Vitamin C: 45% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV

Chef’s Tips

• Really squeeze out cabbage moisture for crispy results
• Maintain medium heat to cook through without burning
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – leave space between fritters
• Test oil temperature with a small amount of batter
• Make sauce ahead for better flavor development
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt for best texture
• Serve immediately while hot and crispy

These cabbage fritters make an excellent appetizer, side dish, or light main course. The contrast between the crispy, savory fritters and the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce creates a delightful combination that appeals to both adults and children. Perfect for using up extra cabbage and creating a memorable dish that’s both economical and delicious.