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Cauliflower Fritters Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 294 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 fritters
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Deliciously crispy cauliflower fritters made with tender cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, perfect as a vegetarian appetizer or snack. These golden fritters are pan-fried to perfection and can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets.


Ingredients

Scale

Fritters

  • 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

  1. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam or boil until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
  2. Mash Cauliflower: Place the cooked cauliflower in a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still retains some texture.
  3. Mix Batter: Add the eggs, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the mashed cauliflower. Stir thoroughly until a thick batter forms.
  4. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. Cook Fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the skillet, flattening each slightly with the back of a spoon. Cook each side for 3–4 minutes or until the fritters turn golden brown and crisp.
  6. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer cooked fritters onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  7. Serve: Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm, optionally with sour cream or yogurt for dipping.

Notes

  • For gluten-free fritters, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Add chopped green onions or extra shredded cheese into the batter for enhanced flavor.
  • Ensure cauliflower is drained well to avoid watery batter and soggy fritters.
  • Use moderate heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.