Aromanian Zucchini Fritters

Ingredients

In this Aromanian adaptation, we incorporate Aromanian flavors and spices to give the zucchini fritters a unique twist. The original Croatian recipe is enhanced with Aromanian herbs and spices, such as paprika, thyme, and savory, which add a distinct and aromatic flavor profile to the fritters. Additionally, the Aromanian version may use different types of flour, such as cornmeal or buckwheat flour, to cater to the culinary preferences of the Aromanian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Fritule od tikvica, so you can check it out.

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated (400g / 14oz) 2 medium zucchinis, grated (400g / 14oz)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried savory 1 teaspoon dried savory
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g) 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, paprika, thyme, savory, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the flour and beaten eggs to the zucchini mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture has a thick consistency.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Aromanian Zucchini Fritters hot as a main dish or as a delightful appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Zucchini — Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent the fritters from becoming soggy.
• Dill — If fresh dill is not available, you can substitute it with dried dill, but use half the amount.
• Flour — Feel free to experiment with different types of flour, such as cornmeal or buckwheat flour, to add a unique twist to the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, serve the fritters with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes to the zucchini mixture for a spicy kick.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the fritters in the oven instead of frying them.
• Serve the fritters with a side of fresh salad or tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
• Leftover fritters can be refrigerated and reheated in a toaster oven for a quick and delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Aromanian Zucchini Fritters hot, either as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or as an appetizer with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Aromanian Zucchini Fritters on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, to add a pop of color. Serve them alongside a bowl of tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges for an inviting presentation.