Zucchini Fritter

Ingredients

ZUCCHINI:

500 g/1 lb zucchini (2 medium ~ 23cm/9″ long)

1 tsp salt

BATTER:

1 large egg

2 green onions , halved then finely sliced

1/4 cup parmesan , grated (fresh or store bought)

1 garlic clove , large, minced

1/2 cup / 75 g flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

Pinch of pepper

4 tbsp olive oil , separated

FOR SERVING:

Yoghurt or sour cream

More chopped green onions

Instructions

ZUCCHINI:

Grate zucchini using a box grater. Grate on the diagonal so you get long strands.

Place in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix, then leave for 10 minutes+.

Squeeze out excess water using hands (or bundle up tea towel) then place zucchini in a bowl.

BATTER:

Preheat oven to 200F/100C (for keeping fritters warm). Place rack on tray (helps keep crispy)

Add egg, green onions, parmesan and garlic into the zucchini bowl. Mix to combine.

Scatter over flour and baking powder (don’t dump in one spot), and add pinch of pepper. Mix until flour is just incorporated – batter should be thick but soft (see video, Note 1).

COOKING:

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a non stick pan over medium high heat (or medium if stove is strong). Drop 1/4 cup batter in the pan (ice cream scoop is perfect). Do 3 or 4 mounds.

Flatten lightly with spatula to about 1cm / 4/5″ thick.

Cook for 3 minutes until underside is deep golden (adjust heat if browning too quickly). Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes. Transfer to tray and place in oven to keep warm.

Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve immediately with a dollop of yoghurt or sour cream and garnish of extra green onions if desired.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese in the batter?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses.

Feta or cheddar can provide distinct flavors.

How do I prevent the fritters from being too watery?

After grating the zucchini, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the batter.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s recommended to make the batter just before cooking to maintain its consistency.

Preparing it ahead may result in a different texture.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it might result in a denser texture.

How can I make the fritters gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour, and ensure the baking powder is gluten-free.
6. What’s the purpose of baking powder in the batter?

Baking powder adds leavening, making the fritters light and fluffy.

Can I fry the fritters in less oil?

You can use less oil, but ensure the pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.

8. What other sauces can I serve with zucchini fritters?

Besides yogurt or sour cream, try tzatziki, aioli, or a simple tomato salsa.

Can I freeze leftover fritters?

Yes, you can freeze them, but the texture might change slightly upon reheating.

Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container.

How do I reheat leftover fritters?

Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness.

Avoid using a microwave to prevent sogginess.