Description
These crispy and flavorful Cauliflower Fritters are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian appetizer made with mashed cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Lightly fried to perfection, they make a perfect snack or side dish, with an option for gluten-free adaptation.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups florets)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam or boil until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly to make it easier to mash.
- Mash Cauliflower: Place the cooked cauliflower in a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky to maintain some texture.
- Make Batter: Add the eggs, flour, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the mashed cauliflower. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients combine into a thick batter.
- Heat Oil: Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying the fritters.
- Cook Fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter per fritter into the skillet, flattening each slightly with the back of a spoon. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve the fritters warm, optionally with sour cream or yogurt as a dip.
Notes
- For gluten-free fritters, substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Enhance flavor by adding chopped green onions or shredded cheese to the batter.
- Serve with sour cream or yogurt for a creamy accompaniment.
