Crispy Broccoli Apple Fritters

Name: Crispy Broccoli Apple Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli, finely chopped; 1 medium apple, grated; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Crispy Broccoli Apple Fritters because they are both delicious and packed with nutrients. Combining the earthy flavors of broccoli with the sweetness of apples creates a unique dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. These fritters are not only crispy on the outside but also tender and flavorful on the inside. Plus, they’re an excellent way to sneak in some veggies! Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish, I can't resist whipping them up whenever I get the chance.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:37:28.663Z

I experimented with various ingredients to create a fritter that could stand out at our family gatherings. After several trials, the combination of crispy broccoli and sweet apples seemed to hit the mark perfectly! To enhance the dish, adding a pinch of nutmeg gave it a lovely warmth that keeps everyone coming back for more.

One of my favorite tips is to use a hot skillet to fry these fritters, as it not only helps them crisp up beautifully but also locks in the flavors. Trust me; these are going to be a hit at your next meal or snack time!

You Will Love These Fritters Because
Crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior
A delightful balance between savory broccoli and sweet apple
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

Mastering the Fritter Technique

The key to achieving a perfectly crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior lies in the frying technique. It's crucial to ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fritter mixture; aim for a temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. You can test this by dropping a small bit of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. If the oil isn't hot enough, the fritters may absorb excess oil and become soggy.

Shaping the fritters is another important step. Use a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop to portion out the mixture. Gently flatten each ball into a patty before placing it in the skillet. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable golden brown color on each side. Frying in batches will prevent overcrowding the pan, allowing the fritters to cook evenly and maintain their crispiness.

Ingredient Insights

Broccoli is the star of this recipe, not just for its flavor but also for its nutritional value. Packed with vitamins C and K, it's crucial to chop it finely to ensure it cooks evenly and integrates seamlessly with the other ingredients. An alternative could be to use cauliflower if you're looking for a different flavor profile, but be sure to adjust cooking times since cauliflower may need a bit longer to soften.

The grated apple adds a natural sweetness and moisture, which balances the earthiness of the broccoli. I recommend using a firmer variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice bite. If you're aiming for low-sugar alternatives, consider using unsweetened applesauce, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid making the mixture too wet. This will still maintain the fruity flavor without overpowering the fritters.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare the fritters:

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli, finely chopped
1 medium apple, grated
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Make sure all your ingredients are prepared and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Crispy Broccoli Apple Fritters:

Prepare the mixture

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, grated apple, flour, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and set aside for 10 minutes.

Heat the pan

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying.

Fry the fritters

Using a spoon, drop the mixture into the skillet, shaping them into patties. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Drain and serve

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy these fritters as a snack or side dish that everyone will love!

Pro Tips

To make the fritters even healthier, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage Tips

These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps to restore their crispiness compared to microwave reheating. If you have leftover raw mixture, it can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to a day, but be sure to mix it again before frying as some ingredients may settle.

For longer storage, cooked fritters can be frozen for up to two months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them directly from frozen in an oven or skillet, adjusting the time accordingly to ensure they are heated through and crispy again.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Broccoli Apple Fritters make an excellent snack or appetizer, and they pair wonderfully with various dips. Consider serving them with a tangy yogurt dip or a simple garlic aioli to complement their flavors. For a heartier meal, you could pair them with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables, making it a wholesome dish for lunch or dinner.

Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese as they come off the skillet can enhance the savory component, or you might try a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the batter can elevate the fritters and add layers of flavor, making them all the more delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How do I store leftover fritters?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these fritters?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months.

→ What dipping sauces go well with the fritters?

They pair well with sour cream, yogurt-based dips, or a sweet honey mustard sauce.