Description
These crispy cauliflower fritters are light, cheesy, and perfect as an appetizer, after-school snack, or delicious side dish. Made with mashed cauliflower, parmesan cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, they are pan-fried to golden perfection and garnished with fresh green onions for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets (about 3 cups)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for frying
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Steam the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Steam the chopped cauliflower florets for 5-10 minutes until tender but still mashable, not mushy. Drain well and allow to cool slightly.
- Mash the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, mash the steamed cauliflower using a fork or potato masher until it reaches a slightly chunky consistency.
- Mix the Batter: Add all-purpose flour, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper to the mashed cauliflower. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into small, uniform patties, ensuring they hold together well for frying.
- Fry the Fritters: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the patties in batches for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed between batches.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and drain on paper towels if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained before mashing to prevent soggy fritters.
- Cooking on medium-low heat ensures the fritters cook through without burning the outside.
- You can substitute parmesan cheese with a vegetarian alternative if desired.
- Serve with sour cream, ranch, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
- To keep the fritters warm while cooking other batches, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
