Mediterranean Potato Fritters
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Mediterranean Potato Fritters are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side, or even a light vegetarian main. Grated potatoes are mixed with onion, fresh herbs, and seasonings, then pan-fried until golden brown. They’re simple to make, budget-friendly, and pair wonderfully with dips like tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or even a fresh tomato salad.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and grated
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped or grated
Eggs: 2 large
Flour: ¼ cup plain flour
Seasoning: Salt and black pepper, to taste (plus optional Cajun seasoning or garlic powder)
Fresh herbs: 2 tbsp parsley or chives, chopped
Oil: For frying (olive oil or vegetable oil)
Optional additions:
½ cup grated cheese (Parmesan, feta, or mozzarella)
¼ cup diced ham or cooked turkey
Instructions
Prepare the potatoes:
Peel and grate the potatoes. Place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible—this is key for crispy fritters.
Mix the batter:
In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, onion, eggs, flour, herbs, salt, pepper, and any optional add-ins like cheese or ham. Stir until well combined.
Heat the oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2–3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Form the fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten slightly into a patty.
Fry:
Place fritters in the skillet (work in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Enjoy hot with a squeeze of lemon, fresh herbs, or your favorite Mediterranean dip like tzatziki or garlic yogurt.
Tips
Drain well: After grating the potatoes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step makes the fritters crispier and keeps them from falling apart.
Use a nonstick pan: It helps prevent sticking and allows you to use less oil.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so the fritters cook evenly and stay golden brown.
Keep warm in the oven: Place cooked fritters on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven if making a large batch.
Size matters: Smaller fritters hold together better and get crispier.
Variations
Cheesy fritters: Add feta, Parmesan, or mozzarella to the mix for extra flavor and richness.
Protein boost: Mix in diced ham, cooked chicken, or even canned tuna for a heartier fritter.
Herb lovers: Try dill, basil, or mint along with parsley for a fresh Mediterranean twist.
Spiced version: Add paprika, cumin, or za’atar for extra depth.
Vegan option: Replace eggs with 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons water (let sit until gelled).
Veggie-packed: Mix in grated zucchini or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Q&A
Q: Can I make the fritters ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can fry them in advance and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to re-crisp.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Absolutely. Place fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What dipping sauces go best with these fritters?
A: Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, hummus, or even a simple squeeze of lemon all pair beautifully.
Q: How do I keep them from falling apart?
A: Be sure to squeeze out the potato liquid well and don’t skip the flour and eggs—they’re what bind the fritters together.
Nutrition
(per fritter, based on 10 fritters, without optional add-ins)
Calories: ~95
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: 110mg
(Values will vary depending on cheese, ham, or other add-ins.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Potato Fritters are golden, crispy, and full of flavor. They’re versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, side dish, or light meal, and you can easily customize them with herbs, cheese, or protein. Pair them with a refreshing dip like tzatziki or a simple salad, and you’ve got a comforting dish that’s easy to love.