Vegan Pea and Zucchini Fritters: Our Recipe

Fritters are a great way to use up veggies and make them a bit more enjoyable to eat. You can make all kinds of fritters, but one of our favorites is this pea and zucchini version.

The addition of zucchini takes these fritters to the next level, adding both flavor and texture.

If you’re looking to whip up some delicious pea and zucchini fritters, you’re in the right place! We’ve laid out a simple, tasty vegan recipe that you can easily recreate at home.

Ingredients Needed for Vegan Pea and Zucchini Fritters

• 1 medium zucchini (100g): Grated, with excess liquid squeezed out (see tips below).
• 1 cup of baby peas: Fresh or frozen, whichever you have on hand.
• 2 flax eggs: Combine 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water; let sit for a few minutes to thicken.
• 1/3 cup self-raising flour: For the right texture and a light, fluffy finish. You can use a gluten-free option if needed.
• 2 spring onions: Finely chopped for extra flavor.
• 1 tbsp finely chopped mint: Adds a refreshing twist.
• 40g vegan feta: Crumbled for a creamy, tangy taste. You can also use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Juice of 1/4 of a lemon: For serving; optional but recommended.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For frying to prevent sticking.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and flax eggs until the mixture is smooth.
2. Add the grated zucchini (with excess liquid squeezed out), peas, spring onions, mint, vegan feta, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
4. Cook spoonfuls of the batter for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary.
5. Let the fritters cool slightly before serving. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh finish.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Substitutions:
  • If you need a gluten-free option, swap the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Chickpea flour also works well and adds a bit of extra protein.
  • For a cheesier flavor without vegan feta, use 1–2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
  • Instead of flax eggs, you can use chia seeds as an egg replacer by mixing 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with 6 tablespoons of water and letting it sit until it gels.
• Variations:
  • Add other veggies to the mix for more color and nutrients. Grated carrots, sweet corn, or finely chopped bell peppers are excellent choices.
  • Experiment with seasonal produce by adding grated butternut squash or finely shredded cabbage in the fall and winter months for a heartier fritter.

Flavor Enhancements

• For an extra flavor boost, consider adding spices to the batter. Smoked paprika, cumin, or ground coriander can add warmth and depth to the fritters.
• Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can be mixed into the batter for added freshness. Just chop them finely and fold them in before frying.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped chili to the batter.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings

• Drizzle with Sauce: Serve the fritters with a homemade vegan sauce like garlic aioli, tahini sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. This adds a creamy texture and extra flavor.
• Sprinkle with Seeds: For added texture and nutrients, sprinkle some toasted sesame or sunflower seeds over the fritters before serving.
• Make It a Meal: Turn these fritters into a full meal by serving them in a wrap or pita bread. Add some fresh greens, sliced avocado, and a dollop of vegan yogurt or hummus for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad or a simple green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

Our Top Tips for Making Great Vegan Pea and Zucchini Fritters

1. Make the Batter Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. However, leave out the flour until you’re ready to cook to keep the batter light and airy.
2. Dry Out the Zucchini: Zucchinis hold a lot of moisture, which can make the batter too wet. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to keep your fritters from falling apart.
3. Use Flax Eggs: The flax eggs act as a great vegan binder for the fritters. Just be sure to let the flaxseed and water mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the batter.
4. Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Cook the fritters until they are golden brown. Overcooking can make the zucchini mushy, which may cause the fritters to break apart.

Storage Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container, but keep in mind that they may lose some of their fresh flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Pea and zucchini fritters are a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your meals. This recipe is straightforward, quick, and perfect for busy families.

With the variety of substitutions, flavor enhancements, and serving suggestions, you can easily make these fritters your own. Just make sure to dry out the zucchini and avoid overcooking to keep your fritters light and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions