Cabbage Fritters Recipe

Cabbage Fritters Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

These cabbage fritters are perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft and aromatic center, making them a delightful snack or appetizer. Follow these easy steps to make your own at home!

Ingredients

  • 7 cups thinly sliced cabbage (from 1 small head)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 cup peeled and grated carrot
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup white rice flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup canola oil, divided

Feta Dip Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Feta Dip

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, crumbled feta cheese, dill, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and salt until the mixture is smooth. This should take about 1 minute.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Fritter Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cabbage, chopped scallions, grated carrots, and kosher salt. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the lightly beaten eggs to the cabbage mixture and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

To the cabbage mixture, add the all-purpose flour, rice flour, cornstarch, ginger, crushed red pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, baking powder, baking soda, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Heat Oil in Skillet

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer after 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Form and Fry the Fritters

Spoon a heaping 1/3 cup of the cabbage mixture into the skillet. Flatten the mixture with a spatula to about 1/4-inch thickness. Repeat this process, adding 3 more fritters, spaced about 1 inch apart. Flatten them lightly with the spatula.

Step 7: Cook the Fritters

Fry the fritters for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack and loosely cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Step 8: Repeat the Process

Continue frying the remaining fritters in batches, using the remaining 6 tablespoons of oil. Be sure to cook until golden brown on both sides.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once all the fritters are cooked, garnish them with additional chopped scallions. Serve the fritters warm with the homemade feta dip on the side.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 315
  • Total Fat: 23g (29% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 6g (29% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 72mg (24% DV)
  • Sodium: 521mg (23% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 23g (8% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 7g (13% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 52mg (57% DV)
  • Calcium: 178mg (14% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
  • Potassium: 405mg (9% DV)

Test Kitchen Tips

  • Use a food processor or mandolin slicer for quick and easy slicing of vegetables.
  • Avoid letting the batter sit too long after mixing, as the vegetables will release moisture and make the batter too runny.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, thinly sliced onions, grated potatoes, or finely grated cauliflower.

Make Ahead Instructions

To prepare the fritters ahead of time, cook them with a small amount of oil until set on both sides. Cool completely before placing them on a cookie sheet in a single layer and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat by frying again following the instructions above. The feta dip can be stored in an airtight for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Cabbage Fritters Recipe

The History of Cabbage Fritters

Cabbage fritters have roots in traditional European and Asian cuisines, where frying vegetables in a simple batter was a common way to extend ingredients and enhance flavor. In Eastern Europe, variations of cabbage pancakes were a staple in peasant households, using readily available cabbage, eggs, and flour. The recipe evolved over centuries, blending local spices and herbs to suit regional palates, eventually spreading to North America as immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them.

Regional Variations

Different regions have put their own spin on cabbage fritters. In Eastern Europe, the batter often includes potatoes, onions, and caraway seeds, creating a heartier version. In India, cabbage pakoras are spiced with turmeric, cumin, and chili, offering a spicier, crispier texture. Modern American versions, like the recipe presented here, focus on a lighter, crisp exterior with added vegetables such as carrots and scallions, paired with a tangy dip like feta dill sauce to balance the flavors.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

While cabbage fritters might resemble potato pancakes or zucchini fritters, the distinct sweetness of caramelized cabbage sets them apart. Unlike potato pancakes, which rely heavily on starch for structure, cabbage fritters achieve a delicate, airy texture with a combination of flours, cornstarch, and eggs. The addition of grated carrots and aromatic seasonings such as ginger and dill also distinguishes them from simpler vegetable fritters, adding layers of flavor that are both savory and slightly sweet.

Where They Are Commonly Served

Cabbage fritters are versatile and can be served as appetizers, side dishes, or even as a light main course. They are often featured in brunch menus, family dinners, and festive gatherings. Restaurants may serve them with a variety of dips, including yogurt-based sauces, creamy feta, or tangy sour cream, elevating a humble vegetable into a gourmet dish. Street food markets, especially in Europe and Asia, frequently offer small, crispy fritters as quick snacks.

Interesting Facts

  • Cabbage is naturally high in vitamin C and fiber, making these fritters both flavorful and nutritious.
  • The combination of baking powder and baking soda in the batter creates a uniquely light and airy texture, preventing the fritters from becoming dense.
  • While traditionally fried, modern variations sometimes use an air fryer or oven to reduce oil and make a healthier version without compromising crispiness.
  • Adding ingredients like ginger, dill, or red pepper transforms a simple vegetable pancake into a dish with complex, layered flavors.
  • These fritters are highly adaptablespinach, zucchini, or even shredded cauliflower can be mixed in for creative variations.
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FAQ about Cabbage Fritters Recipe

Cabbage fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Yes, you can freeze cabbage fritters! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute rice flour with another gluten-free flour like chickpea flour or potato flour. If you're not looking for a gluten-free version, regular all-purpose flour can be used in place of rice flour.

Cabbage fritters are best served warm with a side of feta dip, yogurt, or sour cream. You can also garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or more chopped scallions. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light main course.

Yes, you can make cabbage fritters ahead of time. Cook them until golden and set, then cool them before storing in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat them in a skillet or oven to crisp them up again.

Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, grated potatoes, or even cauliflower. Be sure to adjust the flour and cornstarch as necessary to get the right batter consistency.

In addition to feta dip, you can serve cabbage fritters with a variety of dips such as sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy sriracha mayo. You can also pair them with a simple side salad or a tangy chutney for extra flavor.

Yes, you can make cabbage fritters without eggs. You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or chia seeds mixed with water. You could also try using a bit of mashed potato or a vegan egg replacer to help bind the ingredients together.

Soggy fritters are usually caused by too much moisture in the batter. Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess water from the cabbage and carrot before mixing them into the batter. If the batter becomes too runny, add a little more flour or cornstarch to help it firm up.

To make the fritters extra crispy, ensure that you are frying them in hot oil (about 350°F or 175°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and make the fritters soggy. Also, using both cornstarch and rice flour helps create a crispier texture.

Comments

edski0

03/10/2025 09:37:18 PM

Eye balled some ingredients and added garlic. Did not have baking powder and rice flour where we were staying, Still turned out great! Served with creme fresca. Yum

WorthyScoop9927

03/29/2025 12:52:59 PM

I didn't have rice flour so I just used a whole cup of regular flour. I didn't measure the cabbage or carrot so I doubled the baking soda, powder and corn starch. Then I added onion powder because I didn't have chives, and I used three eggs. No other seasonings except salt and pepper and no feta dip - I mixed greek yogurt, mayo and horseradish together for that. Delicious and quick! My husband loved it better than potato pancakes. I will definitely make this again!

Frank Hernandez

11/21/2024 12:47:39 AM

Made it last night — instant success.

katgodwin

06/16/2024 12:16:52 AM

We love recipes that includes lots of fresh vegetables and this recipe turned out to be one of our favorites. We're not vegans or vegetarians but this recipe is a nice change of pace and we will have it often!

BriskBowl7698

02/09/2024 06:31:42 PM

Easy to make and season the way you like... You can do many variations, welcome to the world of fritters! Use eggplant and or zucchini thinly grated for a tasty variation...