Cauliflower Fritters

Cauliflower fritters are a delicious, versatile, and satisfying dish. They can be a fantastic side, a vegetarian main, or even a healthy-ish snack. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.

Here are a couple of versions, from a simple, classic recipe to a more flavorful spiced version.

Recipe 1: Simple & Classic Cauliflower Fritters

This is a straightforward, family-friendly recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of cauliflower.

Yields: About 12-15 fritters
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4-5 cups)

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley or chives

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon baking powder (for extra fluffiness)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Olive oil or avocado oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Cook the Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are very tender (a knife should slide in easily), about 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and let them cool for a few minutes until they are easy to handle.

2. Rice the Cauliflower: Place the cooked, drained cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This is the most important step for crispy fritters! Alternatively, you can mash it well with a potato masher.

3. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed cauliflower, eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

4. Pan-Fry: Heat a generous layer of oil (about ¼ inch) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of batter should sizzle), scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per fritter and carefully place them in the pan. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten them into patties.

5. Cook Until Golden: Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches.

6. Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately.

Recipe 2: Spiced Indian-Inspired Cauliflower Pakoras

This version uses chickpea flour (besan) and aromatic spices for a gluten-free, deeply flavorful fritter.

Yields: About 15-20 fritters
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into very small florets (about 4 cups)

• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)

• 3-4 tablespoons water (as needed)

• ½ teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (or to taste)

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

• Salt to taste

• Oil for deep or shallow frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cauliflower: You can use the cauliflower raw for a crunchier texture or lightly steamed for a softer interior. If using raw, make sure the florets are very small. If steaming, do so for just 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but not soft. Drain well.

2. Make the Spiced Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the chickpea flour, turmeric, cumin seeds, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Gradually add water, a little at a time, while whisking until you have a thick, smooth batter that coats the back of a spoon. It should be thicker than pancake batter.

3. Combine: Stir in the cauliflower florets, ginger, and cilantro, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the batter.

4. Fry: Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of the cauliflower batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Drain and Serve: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with mint chutney or a simple yogurt dip.

Serving Suggestions & Tips:

• Dipping Sauces: These are a must!

  • Lemon-Yogurt Dip: Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh dill or mint.

  • Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne.

  • Marinara Sauce: Perfect for a simple, kid-friendly option.

• Baking Option (Less Crispy, but Healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place formed fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush or spray generously with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.

• Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to the batter:

  • Cheese: Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar.

  • Vegetables: Finely chopped onion, corn, or spinach.

  • Protein: Canned tuna or flaked salmon can be mixed in for a heartier fritter.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade cauliflower fritters! They’re a wonderful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.