Easy Cabbage Fritters

If you’re looking for a savory, crispy, and incredibly versatile dish, Cabbage Fritters (or Cabbage Pancakes) might just become your new favorite! These delicious little fritters are packed with shredded cabbage, and they’re fried to golden perfection, with a crunchy exterior and tender inside. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make with basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Cabbage is one of those underrated vegetables that can be transformed into something truly special when given the right treatment. These Cabbage Fritters are flavorful, easy to customize, and can be enjoyed in so many different ways—whether as a side dish, a snack, or even a light meal. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and a great way to sneak in more veggies!

I love making these fritters on lazy weekends or when I need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t require much effort. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, yogurt, or even top them with a poached egg for a complete meal. These fritters are also a great side dish to serve with grilled meats, soups, or salads.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Cabbage Fritters

1. Crispy and Delicious: The fritters are fried to golden, crispy perfection while staying tender and flavorful inside.
2. Healthy and Packed with Veggies: Cabbage is nutrient-dense, low in calories, and loaded with vitamins and fiber, making these fritters a healthy option.
3. Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is affordable and widely available, making this dish a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
4. Versatile: These fritters can be served as a snack, a side dish, or even a main course with a little creativity. Plus, you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste.
5. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, these fritters are perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something simple yet satisfying.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10-15 minutes (per batch)
• Total time: 30-40 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 12-15 fritters
• Serving Size: 2-3 fritters per person (depending on size)

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 3 fritters)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Carbs: 18g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Easy Cabbage Fritters:

For the Fritters:

• 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 carrots, grated (optional, for extra flavor and color)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or use chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps make the fritters light and fluffy)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or cilantro, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional):

• Greek yogurt or sour cream, for dipping
• Lemon wedges, for a citrusy finish
• Hot sauce, for a spicy kick
• Fresh herbs, for garnish
• Chili flakes or cayenne pepper, for extra heat

Optional Add-Ins and Variations:

• Grated cheese (such as Parmesan, cheddar, or feta), for extra richness
• Chopped scallions or chives, for more oniony flavor
• Chopped bell peppers, for added crunch and color
• Bacon bits or ham, for a meaty twist
• Zucchini or potatoes, for a heartier version
• Red cabbage or savoy cabbage, for a colorful variation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Vegetables

1. Shred the Cabbage:

Start by finely shredding 4 cups of green cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. The finer the cabbage, the better it will bind with the batter. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.

2. Add the Other Vegetables:

Finely chop the onion and grate the carrots (if using). Add them to the bowl with the shredded cabbage. If you’re adding any extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes, grate or chop them finely and add them to the mix as well.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Batter

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This dry mixture will help the fritters bind and hold their shape during frying.

2. Beat the Eggs:

In another small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine.

3. Add the Flour Mixture:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the cabbage and egg mixture. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined, and the cabbage is coated in the batter. The mixture should be thick but not too dry—if it seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk to loosen it up slightly.

4. Add Fresh Herbs:

Stir in your fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or cilantro. These herbs add a burst of fresh flavor that brightens up the fritters. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

1. Heat the Oil:

Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, so the fritters can fry evenly and become golden and crispy.

2. Form the Fritters:

Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the cabbage mixture at a time and shape it into a patty or small pancake. You can use your hands or a spoon to form the patties. Gently flatten them out so they cook evenly.

3. Fry the Fritters:

Carefully place the fritters in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (you may need to fry in batches). Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a spatula to flip them over and cook the other side.

4. Drain the Fritters:

Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F/95°C) while you fry the remaining fritters.

Step 4: Serve the Cabbage Fritters

1. Serve with Toppings:

Serve the Cabbage Fritters hot, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce. You can also garnish them with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

2. Pair with Other Dishes:

These fritters pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside grilled meats, soups, or salads for a complete meal, or enjoy them as a snack on their own.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Easy Cabbage Fritters

These fritters are best enjoyed fresh out of the pan, while they’re still warm and crispy. The combination of tender cabbage, crispy edges, and savory seasonings makes for a delicious bite every time!

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Serve the fritters as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also go great with soups, stews, or a fresh garden salad.
• As a Snack or Appetizer: These fritters make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki, aioli, or hot sauce.
• For Breakfast or Brunch: Top the fritters with a poached egg or serve them alongside scrambled eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
• In a Sandwich: Use the fritters as a base for a unique sandwich—layer them with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite condiments between slices of crusty bread.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Get the Cabbage Dry: After shredding the cabbage, it’s a good idea to sprinkle a little salt over it and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture from the cabbage. Once the cabbage has sat, squeeze out any extra liquid before mixing it into the batter. This step helps prevent soggy fritters.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the fritters, make sure to leave enough space between each one. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature of the oil and cause the fritters to steam rather than fry, resulting in less crispiness.
3. Use the Right Oil: For a neutral flavor, use vegetable oil or light olive oil. If you want to add a hint of extra flavor, try frying the fritters in a bit of butter along with the oil for a rich, golden crust.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the fritters to your liking by adding different spices or herbs. You can also incorporate grated cheese or finely chopped vegetables for added flavor and texture.
5. Keep the Fritters Warm: If you’re frying in batches, keep the cooked fritters warm in a low oven (about 200°F/95°C) until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain their crispy texture.

Recipe Variations

This Easy Cabbage Fritters recipe is highly adaptable, so you can switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Cheesy Cabbage Fritters:

For a richer, more indulgent fritter, add 1/2 cup of grated cheese to the cabbage mixture. Parmesan, cheddar, or feta work beautifully and give the fritters a delicious cheesy flavor.

2. Gluten-Free Cabbage Fritters:

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend. Chickpea flour adds a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the cabbage.

3. Spicy Cabbage Fritters:

If you like a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter. You can also serve the fritters with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or spicy yogurt.

4. Zucchini and Cabbage Fritters:

For a veggie-packed version, mix in grated zucchini or grated potatoes with the shredded cabbage. Zucchini adds moisture and tenderness, while potatoes make the fritters more filling and hearty.

5. Asian-Inspired Cabbage Fritters:

For an Asian twist, add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to the batter. You can also stir in some chopped scallions and sesame seeds for extra flavor. Serve these fritters with a side of soy dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce.

6. Vegan Cabbage Fritters:

To make these fritters vegan, replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). You can also use a vegan-friendly flour, such as chickpea or rice flour, and fry the fritters in plant-based oil.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Cabbage Fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Freezing:

These fritters freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. To freeze, let the fritters cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For frying the fritters evenly.
• Mandoline or Food Processor (Optional): To quickly and uniformly shred the cabbage.
• Grater: For grating the carrots or any other vegetables you choose to add.
• Spatula: For flipping the fritters in the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fritters on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

2. How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?

To ensure the fritters hold together, make sure the cabbage is shredded finely and not too wet. If your mixture seems too loose, you can add a little more flour to help bind the ingredients. The eggs also play an important role in holding the fritters together, so don’t skip them (or use a vegan egg substitute if needed).

3. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes! Red cabbage works just as well as green cabbage in this recipe. It will give the fritters a slightly different flavor and a vibrant purple color.

4. Can I make the fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cabbage mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply form the fritters and fry them as directed.

5. What should I serve with cabbage fritters?

Cabbage fritters pair well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, soups, or salads. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like Greek yogurt, sour cream, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Easy Cabbage Fritters (aka Cabbage Pancakes) are a fantastic way to turn humble cabbage into something delicious and satisfying. These crispy, golden fritters are packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs, savory seasonings, and tender cabbage. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a main course, and they’re incredibly versatile, so you can adapt them to suit your taste.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, these fritters are sure to be a hit. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do! Feel free to experiment with different variations and add your own personal touch to this classic recipe.

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