Butternut squash fritters are a delightful way to enjoy the sweet, nutty flavor of this versatile squash. These crisp, golden brown fritters are perfect as a snack, a side dish, or even a light meal. With their savory notes and satisfying texture, they quickly become a favorite on any table, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
Why Make This Butternut Squash Fritters
Making butternut squash fritters is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce while adding a splash of color and flavor to your meal. They combine the natural sweetness of squash with spices and herbs, creating a flavorful, crispy bite that’s hard to resist. Plus, they are simple to make and require minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, these fritters are sure to please.
How to Make Butternut Squash Fritters
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated butternut squash
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large bowl, combine grated butternut squash, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and green onions. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the squash.
Step 2: Mixing
In a separate bowl, beat the egg thoroughly and add it to the squash mixture. Stir until everything is combined and you achieve a thick batter consistency.
Step 3: Cooking
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Be sure to use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan for frying. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon.
Step 4: Finishing
Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. After cooking, remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Fritters
These fritters are best enjoyed warm, straight from the pan. You can serve them with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, or even a zesty dipping sauce like sriracha or a garlic aioli. They also pair wonderfully with fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For brunch or a light lunch, consider serving them alongside a poached egg.
How to Store Butternut Squash Fritters
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place the fritters in an airtight container, and they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they regain some crispiness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Fritters
- Grating the squash finely will help the fritters hold together better and cook more evenly.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritters; if it’s not, they may become soggy.
- For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or garlic powder to the batter.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized fritters; this ensures even cooking and a uniform look.
Delicious Variations
- Zucchini Fritters: Substitute half of the butternut squash with grated zucchini for a light, fresh taste.
- Cheesy Fritters: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, such as parmesan or cheddar, to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Squash Fritters: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Herbed Fritters: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before frying. -
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen, but be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture, which could affect the fritter’s texture. -
What if my fritters fall apart while cooking?
Ensure you have enough flour to bind the ingredients, and avoid overcrowding the pan as this can lower the oil’s temperature. -
How can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to create a gluten-free version of the fritters. -
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, but note they may not have the same crispiness.
Conclusion
Butternut squash fritters offer a delicious way to savor seasonal flavors while being simple to prepare. Their golden, crispy exterior and tender inside make them a treat no one can resist. Whether for a snack, a side dish, or a light meal, these fritters promise satisfaction and joy in every bite. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Butternut Squash Fritters
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crisp, golden brown butternut squash fritters perfect as a snack, side dish, or light meal, combining natural sweetness with savory spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated butternut squash
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine grated butternut squash, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and green onions. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the squash.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg thoroughly and add it to the squash mixture. Stir until everything is combined and you achieve a thick batter consistency.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
Serve with sour cream, yogurt, or a zesty dipping sauce. They also pair well with fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
