Basic Cauliflower Fritters

Name: Basic Cauliflower Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated or finely chopped; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Isabella

📖Life, Love, and Gastronomy 📖

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These crispy, savory Basic Cauliflower Fritters are the perfect balance of texture and flavor. They are easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and can be served as a snack or a side dish for any meal. With their golden-brown crust and tender interior, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. The cauliflower provides a great base, and when combined with garlic, parsley, and Parmesan, the flavor is irresistible. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your meals!

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, grated or finely chopped

2 large eggs

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I start by grating or finely chopping the cauliflower into small pieces, then place it in a large bowl.

Add the eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), parsley, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Scoop spoonfuls of the cauliflower mixture and shape them into small patties. Add the patties to the skillet.

Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the skillet and place the fritters on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Serve the fritters hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, or enjoy them as a savory snack!

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Spicy Cauliflower Fritters: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.

Vegan Fritters: Swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Cheese Variations: Try swapping the Parmesan with other cheeses like feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Add Veggies: You can incorporate other finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place the fritters in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until crispy again.

Related Recipes:

Amish Onion Fritters

FAQs

Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and cook them when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can make the fritters in advance and store them in the fridge, reheating them before serving.

Can I freeze these fritters?

Absolutely! After cooking, let the fritters cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for this recipe, you can use frozen cauliflower if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain the cauliflower thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the fritter texture.

How do I make these fritters more crispy?

For extra crispiness, you can try lightly pressing down on the fritters with a spatula while they cook, or cook them in a bit more oil. Just be sure to avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each fritter gets a nice crispy edge.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

These basic cauliflower fritters are a fantastic addition to any meal. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, I’m sure they’ll quickly become a household favorite. Enjoy!

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