These crispy zucchini and carrot fritters are a yummy way to sneak in some veggies! They’re golden brown on the outside and soft inside, making them perfect with dipping sauce or on their own.
Honestly, they’re super easy to make! I whip up a batch for lunch or as a snack, and they disappear fast. Plus, who doesn’t love a little crunch in their day? 🥕😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini is a main ingredient that adds moisture and texture. If fresh zucchini isn’t available, you could use yellow squash instead, as it has a similar texture.
Carrots: These add color and sweetness to the fritters. If you prefer, sweet potato can be a great substitute for a different flavor profile!
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters. You can swap it for gluten-free flour or almond flour if you’re avoiding gluten.
Eggs: They act as a binder. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce—just be mindful that it might slightly alter the texture.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a savory flavor. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option while still adding a cheesy taste.
How Do I Make My Fritters Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy zucchini carrot fritters is removing as much liquid as possible from the grated veggies. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini and carrots, then place them in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze the towel tightly to release excess moisture. A good amount of moisture needs to be removed for that perfect crunch.
- When mixing your batter, ensure it’s not too wet. If needed, add a little more flour.
- Fry in hot oil and avoid overcrowding the pan. This keeps the temperature consistent and helps them crisp up beautifully!
Following these steps will yield fritters that are not only flavorful but have the ideal crunch on the outside. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Carrot Fritters?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, squeezing out moisture, and mixing ingredients, and about 10 minutes frying. Quick and easy for a tasty snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
Start by grating the zucchinis and carrots. Then, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist and squeeze to remove as much liquid as possible. This is an important step to ensure your fritters are crispy!
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large bowl, add the drained zucchini and carrot mixture. Then, combine it with the flour, eggs, green onions (if using), minced garlic, Parmesan cheese (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully mixed.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter in. It should sizzle.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and carefully place it in the skillet. Gently flatten them with the back of a spoon to form small patties. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm, and feel free to add sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful crispy zucchini carrot fritters! 🍽️🥕
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini and Carrots?
While fresh zucchini and carrots are best for this recipe, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing them into the batter.
Can I Make These Fritters Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these fritters vegan, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed gel (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes) as a binder. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to get them crispy again, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Serve With Zucchini Carrot Fritters?
These fritters pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Serve them with sour cream, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or even a tangy salsa. They also make a great side dish alongside salads or as part of a veggie platter!
