Vegan Zucchini Fritters Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time for Zucchini: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 7 large fritters
Calories: 80 per fritter

Ingredients:

  • 200 g zucchini
  • 100 g vegan cheese, shredded (such as Daiya or Violife)
  • 3-4 tablespoons rolled oats
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water (for flax eggs)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Onion powder to taste

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by preparing the zucchini. Peel and finely grate 200 grams of zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a bowl and add ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Let the salted zucchini sit for 10 minutes. This process will help draw out the excess moisture from the zucchini, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in the fritters.

2. Squeeze Out Moisture:
After the zucchini has rested for 10 minutes, it’s time to remove the excess moisture. Using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze the grated zucchini to remove as much water as possible. This step is essential to prevent the fritters from becoming too soggy during cooking.

3. Prepare the Oats:
While the zucchini is resting, take 3-4 tablespoons of rolled oats and blend them into a fine flour. This oat flour will act as a binding agent and add a subtle nutty flavor to the fritters. Set the oat flour aside.

4. Make Flax Eggs:
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This mixture, known as flax eggs, will serve as a vegan substitute for traditional eggs, helping to bind the fritter mixture together.

5. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with the flax eggs. Mix thoroughly to ensure the flax eggs are evenly incorporated. Next, add the oat flour, a pinch of onion powder to taste, and 100 grams of shredded vegan cheese. Stir the mixture until it forms a soft and homogeneous dough. The vegan cheese will add a creamy texture and savory flavor to the fritters.

6. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is ideal for baking the fritters to a perfect golden brown.

7. Shape the Fritters:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using a spoon, place seven separate spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture onto the baking sheet. Shape each spoonful into a disc using the back of the spoon. Make sure the fritters are evenly spaced to allow for even baking.

8. Bake the Fritters:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The fritters should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow them to firm up.

Nutritional Information (per fritter):

  • Calories: 80
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g

Tips and Variations:

Cooking Methods:
If you prefer a different texture and shape, you can also cook these fritters in a waffle iron or a pancake griddle. This method will give you crispy edges and a soft interior. Simply follow the same steps for preparing the zucchini mixture, but instead of baking, cook them in a preheated waffle iron or on a pancake griddle until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:
These vegan zucchini fritters make a delightful appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Serve them with a dollop of vegan sour cream, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of your favorite dipping sauce. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating:
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Additional Ingredients:
Feel free to get creative with your fritters by adding additional ingredients. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a burst of flavor, while finely diced bell peppers or corn can provide a delightful crunch. Just be sure to adjust the binding agents (oat flour and flax eggs) as needed to maintain the right consistency.

Nutritional Boost:
For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the mixture. Nutritional yeast is rich in vitamins and minerals and will add a cheesy, umami flavor to the fritters without the need for additional vegan cheese.

Conclusion:

These vegan zucchini fritters are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether baked, griddled, or waffled, they offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light meal or a snack, they are easy to prepare and full of nutritious ingredients. Try them with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy the delightful taste of these vegan fritters!