Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a crispy, golden-brown sensation that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! These Butternut Squash Fritters are not just another side dish – they're a culinary adventure that combines the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash with a perfectly crisp exterior and a tantalizing spiced yogurt dip. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply want to elevate your weeknight cooking, these fritters are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, grated
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the butternut squash. Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and grate it using a box grater or food processor. You should have about 2 cups of grated butternut squash.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated butternut squash with the flour, grated parmesan cheese, egg, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan to prevent the fritters from sticking.
- Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Carefully place the fritters into the heated skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the fritters for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently using a spatula to avoid breaking them apart.
- Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Continue cooking the remaining fritters, adding more oil to the pan as necessary.
- While the fritters are cooking, prepare the spiced yogurt. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended. Season with salt to taste.
- Once all the fritters are cooked, serve them warm on a platter with a side of the spiced yogurt for dipping. Enjoy your delicious butternut squash fritters!
Tips
- Moisture is Key: After grating the butternut squash, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture. This helps your fritters stay crisp and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Temperature Control: Ensure your skillet is at medium heat. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and the fritters will absorb too much oil.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook fritters in batches to maintain the perfect crispy texture. Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and create steamed, soggy fritters.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the fritter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices in both the fritters and yogurt dip. Smoked paprika, cumin, and za'atar are all excellent options.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg
