Crispy Parmesan Onion Fritters: A Mediterranean-Inspired Delight

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• 3 medium onions, peeled and diced (450g / 1 lb)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded (100g)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (10g)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• ⅓ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup vegetable or olive oil, for frying (60ml)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Begin by properly dicing the onions into uniform, small pieces to ensure even cooking. The key is consistency in size for the perfect texture.
2. Shred the carrot using the large holes of a box grater. If it’s very moist, pat it gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Mince the garlic cloves finely to distribute their flavor throughout the mixture.

Making the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced onions, shredded carrot, and minced garlic.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Crack in the eggs and mix well to bind the ingredients.
4. Sprinkle in the flour, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together when shaped.

Cooking the Fritters

1. Place a heavy-bottomed cast iron or non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan (about ¼ cup).
3. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop 2-3 tablespoon portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
4. Gently flatten each portion with the back of a spoon to create uniform patties about ½-inch thick.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until golden brown.
6. Carefully flip each fritter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden.
7. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fritters hot, while they’re at their crispiest. They pair beautifully with:

• A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt
• Fresh sour cream
• Homemade aioli
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Storage and Reheating

These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (3 fritters):

• Calories: 285
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Iron: 2mg
• Calcium: 220mg

Serves: 4-6 (makes approximately 12-15 fritters)

Pro Tips

• Make sure to really pack the mixture together when forming the fritters to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – leave enough space between fritters for easy flipping.
• The oil should be hot but not smoking before adding the fritters to achieve the perfect golden crust.
• If the mixture seems too wet, add an extra tablespoon of flour. If too dry, add a beaten egg white.

These onion fritters are perfect for meal prep, party appetizers, or as a delicious side dish to any main course. Their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior make them irresistible to anyone who tries them.