Easy Vegan Zucchini Fritters: A Quick & Crispy Egg-Free Family Recipe

il y a 2 semaines

Inspired by: @lori135

Summer brings an abundance of fresh zucchini from gardens and markets, and if you're wondering how to transform this versatile vegetable into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish, look no further! These Easy Vegan Zucchini Fritters are a delightful, egg-free and dairy-free take on a classic family favorite, perfect for using up your harvest.

Originally a cherished childhood recipe from @lori135's mom, this plant-based version thoughtfully replaces eggs with chickpea flour and kala namak to create that authentic, subtly "eggy" flavor and perfect binding. Whether you're seeking a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy snack, or a unique appetizer, these crispy fritters are incredibly simple to make and packed with fresh herbaceous flavors. As one delighted user on abillion shared, "Wow Lori, it was truly great!!! Chef's kiss 😗👌". Another user was equally excited: "Okay, I got all the ingredients and I'll be making these, today! Thank you, Lori!!! 🙏💚"

They're ideal for anyone looking for easy vegan recipes, a healthy summer meal, or simply a creative way to enjoy vegetables.

Ingredients

500g zucchini
50g chickpea flour
30g onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Kala namak (black salt), a pinch (for eggy flavor)
1 tsp nutritional yeast
Fresh dill, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh mint, chopped
Lemon juice, a squeeze

Equipment

Large bowl
Grater or food processor
Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
Non-stick pan or baking sheet

Instructions

Wash the zucchini thoroughly and shred it using a grater or food processor.
Place the shredded zucchini in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
Firmly squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial for crispy fritters!
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with chickpea flour, chopped onion, minced garlic cloves, salt, black pepper, kala namak, and nutritional yeast.
Stir in the fresh dill, parsley, mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice until all ingredients are well combined.
Form the mixture into small, flat patties.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil (if desired, for extra crispiness) and bake (pan-fry) the patties for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments like vegan tzatziki, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

These vegan zucchini fritters are incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to make them your own:

Flour Alternatives: As mentioned by a user on abillion, "Any flour can be used for these." While chickpea flour offers a unique "eggy" flavor, feel free to experiment with teff flour (as one user successfully did!), all-purpose flour, or a gluten-free blend for a dietary-friendly option. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly.
Flavor Boosters: Get creative with add-ins! The original author suggests vegan tuna, corn, or finely diced bell peppers. One comment also suggests adding tahini for extra richness and binding, or even sesame seeds for texture.
Dipping Sauces: Beyond tzatziki, consider a creamy vegan mayonnaise, a zesty lime juice mixed with cilantro and vegan yogurt (as one commenter enjoyed!), or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Meal Pairings: These fritters are fantastic as a light lunch, a side dish, or even an appetizer. Serve them with a crisp salad, roasted root vegetables, or alongside your favorite vegan protein for a complete meal.

Tips & Hacks for Perfect Fritters

Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze! The single most important step for crispy zucchini fritters is removing as much moisture as possible after salting. Don't skip this!
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the fritters in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and crispiness. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
Baking Option: While pan-frying gives the best crisp, for a healthier alternative, you can bake them in an oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

Enjoy Your Homemade Vegan Zucchini Fritters!

These quick and easy vegan zucchini fritters are truly a testament to how simple and delicious plant-based cooking can be. They're a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce and impress both vegan and non-vegan friends and family alike.

Ready to try this recipe? We'd love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag abillion on social media.

Relevant Image Gallery

Capture the freshness and deliciousness of these vegan zucchini fritters with these inviting visuals:

An enticing overhead shot of golden-brown fritters ready to be served.
A close-up showcasing the vibrant green of the fresh herbs and zucchini in the batter, pre-cooking.
A flat lay of all fresh ingredients artfully arranged, ready for preparation. (Placeholder for a conceptual image, as only two distinct images were provided)