Cheesy Vegetable Fritters

 

Ingredients

• 1 carrot, grated

• ½ onion, finely chopped

• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 small handful of parsley (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Prep the veggies:
   Start by washing, peeling, and grating your carrot. Finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and parsley if using.

2. Make the batter:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrot, chopped onion, bell pepper, parsley, and shredded cheese.

3. Add wet ingredients:
   Crack the eggs into the bowl and stir everything together until evenly coated.

4. Add dry ingredients:
   Sprinkle in the flour, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Mix until the batter is thick but not too dry. It should hold together on a spoon.

5. Heat the oil:
   In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom (about 1–1.5 inches deep). Heat over medium heat until shimmering.

6. Fry the fritters:
   Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of batter and gently place into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

7. Cook until golden:
   Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side or until deep golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on a paper towel–lined plate to drain.

8. Repeat:
   Continue frying in batches until all the batter is used.

9. Serve warm:
   Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Great choices include ranch, sour cream, or spicy aioli.

Tips to Customize Your Cheesy Vegetable Fritters

• Cheese Options: Use mozzarella for melty pull or cheddar for sharp flavor. You can even use pepper jack for a spicy kick.

• Add Protein: Mix in chopped cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.

• Make it Spicy: Add finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.

• Bake Instead: You can bake these at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined tray for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Air Fry Option: Brush lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.