These crispy zucchini and carrot fritters are a fun way to enjoy veggies! They are packed with flavor and have a delightful crunch, making them perfect as a snack or side dish.
Making these fritters is super easy! I love how I can sneak in some greens and still make tasty bites that even my kids enjoy. Plus, they pair great with a dip—perfect for sharing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential for this recipe. If you’re short on zucchini, you can use summer squash as a substitute. Both will give you that lovely moisture and flavor.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and crunch. For a different flavor, try using sweet potatoes instead. Just grate them as you would the carrots!
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap it for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a rich taste. If you want a dairy-free option, omit it or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley brings freshness. You can replace it with other herbs like cilantro or chives based on your preference!
How Do I Get Crispy Fritters Every Time?
The key to crispy fritters is removing excess moisture from the veggies. After grating the zucchini and carrots, be sure to squeeze them tightly in a kitchen towel. This prevents soggy fritters.
- After squeezing out moisture, lightly pat the grated veggies dry.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. A drop of batter should sizzle when added to the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and crispiness!
Following these steps will help you achieve the perfect crunch on your fritters!
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Carrot Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fritter Base:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying:
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need another 15-20 minutes for cooking, so plan for a total of about 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty fritters!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by grating the zucchinis and carrots. To get rid of excess moisture (which is key for crispy fritters!), place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze it tightly to remove as much water as you can. Do the same with the grated carrots.
2. Mix the Fritter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, carrots, flour, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Stir everything together until well mixed. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough so that a small drop of batter sizzles when you add it to the pan. If it doesn’t sizzle, give it a minute more!
4. Cook the Fritters:
For each fritter, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter into the skillet. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon to make sure they cook evenly. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crisp.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm with a side of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
These crispy zucchini carrot fritters make a delicious appetizer or side dish you won’t want to miss!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Carrot Fritters
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add other vegetables like grated sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even corn to the mix. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture, similar to the zucchini and carrots.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free fritters, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and brush or spray them lightly with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for extra crispiness!
