Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
January 16, 2023
These delightful gluten-free Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters make the perfect snack, side dish or main dish. These fritters, reminiscent of pakoras, are crafted using zucchini, eggs, carrots, garlic, parsley, and olive oil. We’ve incorporated aged cheddar cheese into the mix to add a flavorful twist.
These Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters are fun and easy to make; the kids love them. They get this lovely crunch when they are freshly made. The idea was to make a Mediterranean-style pakora with loads of shredded zucchini and carrot. But without all the oil. This zucchini fritter can be used as a side dish with white dip or as a simple snack. It tastes great, warm or cold.
The Pakora Idea
This recipe was adapted from Pakoras, these Indian crunchy patties with veggies and Indian spices. We’ve simplified the flavours by omitting eggs and opting for a simple parsley and aged cheese flavour profile. Instead of the traditional Indian spices, this variation can suit a milder taste profile that appeals to kids.
Using a combination of chickpea flour and rice flour is a brilliant choice. Chickpea flour is an excellent binder, while rice flour adds a delightful crunch to the fritters. Moreover, by utilizing these flours, you’ve ensured that the fritters are both gluten-free and nutritious. It’s a win-win situation, providing a tasty and wholesome snack or bite for everyone to enjoy.
Air Fryer or Oven?
You can choose between using an Air Fryer or an oven for this recipe. Both methods yield delicious results, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
When using the oven, you may notice the patties flatten slightly and develop a darker bottom. This is a normal outcome in the oven due to the heat distribution. However, the oven is still viable if you don’t have an Air Fryer.
On the other hand, the Air Fryer maintains the fritters’ overall shape and crispy texture better. However, it may require making the fritters in batches due to the limited capacity of most Air Fryers.
Ultimately, the choice between the Air Fryer and the oven depends on your preference and the equipment you have available. Whichever method you choose, you’ll still be able to enjoy these tasty fritters.
The White Dip
For a delightful dip to accompany your dishes, start with a basic creme Fraiche infused with zesty lime and fresh parsley. Consider incorporating dill, basil or coriander for an herbal twist if you desire additional flavours. Alternatively, you can replace the creme Fraiche with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy variation. To give it a delightful tzatziki flair, add a hint of garlic. This versatile dip can elevate any snack or meal with its creamy, herb-infused goodness.
Variations
Indeed, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. You have the freedom to experiment with any combination of grated veggies that you prefer. Additionally, feel free to explore a variety of spices to suit your taste. For instance, incorporating a dash of curry powder can transform the fritters into something reminiscent of authentic pakoras. The culinary world is your oyster, allowing you to unleash your creativity and tailor the recipe to your liking.
Toddler Version (BLW)
If you’re considering making this dish for your baby, it’s important to prioritize their nutritional needs. To make it baby-friendly, you can reduce the amount of cheese and salt used in the recipe. Doing so creates a healthier bite that aligns with their dietary requirements. Chickpeas, a highly nutritious legume, offer abundant benefits for growing babies. They are a great source of protein, carbohydrates, and fibre while also providing essential nutrients like folate, iron, vitamin B6, choline, and zinc.
Storage
These quiche-like fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while maintaining their quality. However, if you wish to extend their shelf life, they can be easily frozen and stored for several months. Freezing the fritters will help preserve their flavours and textures, allowing you to enjoy them later. Simply ensure they are properly sealed in freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. This way, you can have a convenient and delicious snack or meal option ready whenever you desire. Pop in the microwave (1-2 minutes) or Air fryer (3-4 minutes) to warm them up instantly.
Other Fun Snacks
Ingredients
- 200 g zucchini eq. 1 medium sized zucchini
- 2 small carrots
- 2 eggs
- 1 small potato
- 1 garlic clove pressed
- ½ cup chickpea flour
- ¼ cup rice flour
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp parsley finely chopped
- 40 g aged cheddar
- salt and pepper
White dip
- 3 tbsp Cream fraiche or plain greek yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ lime
- 1 tsp parsley finely chopped
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by cuting in a cheese grater or mandoline the zucchini, carrots and potato.
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.
- Cover the bottom of Air fryer and make little 4 cm patties.
- Cook in the Air Fryer at 200°C (400F°) for 8 minutes. (needs three batches in the Air fryer and only one in the oven at same temperature for 18 minutes.)
- Make the white sauce by mixing every ingredient.
Video
Nutrition
9 Comments
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Vanessa
These are so delicious and I love that I can make them in the air fryer! -
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Kristen
Our family loved these and thank goodness. We always have so much zucchini, we grow a ton and then freeze it so having another go to recipe that our family loves is so helpful. These will be on repeat in our house. -
passionate foodie
love it. Usually, pakoras are made with potatoes and onions but I really like this idea of using zucchini.
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Mikayla
Whipped these up and took them to work for lunch, I shared them and now she will be making them too! -
The air fryer has to be my current favourite small kitchen appliance. It’s just magic! These fritters look great, and it’s such a good idea to use a combination of flours. I love that I can substitute other veggies this recipe. I’m going to use corn as I am allergic to zucchini.