Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters (Pancakes) Recipe

Indulge in these irresistible cauliflower cheddar fritters offering a modern twist on a comfort food favorite. Tender cauliflower melds with melted cheddar and subtle green onions, elevated by aromatic garlic powder. Crispy on the outside with a soft, flavorful interior, each bite promises a truly delightful and satisfying culinary experience.

I made these Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters (Pancakes) recently and thought i’d share the recipe cause it’s surprisingly nutritious and can even fit a low carb keto plan sometimes. I started off with 1 medium head cauliflower which makes about 4 cups of florets, a great source of fiber and vitamins.

Then i added 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese that not only brings rich flavor but also supplies protein and fats you need. I mixed in 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup all-purpose flour to hold everything together.

To kick up the taste, i threw in 1/4 cup chopped green onions and sprinkled in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder along with some salt and black pepper to taste. I cooked them up in oil till they get crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.

They might look like simple pancake bites but they pack a nutritional punch and are a smart choice for veggie and bariatric recipes alike.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how the cauliflower and cheddar cheese come together in this recipe; it makes a tasty mix that’s kinda healthy too.
2. I like that it’s super simple to make, even if you’re not a master chef—you just cook the cauliflower and mix everything up, which makes me feel like I can do it.
3. The fritters turn out perfectly golden and crispy on the outside but still soft inside, which always gives me that comforting crunch that I crave.
4. I appreciate the little kick the garlic powder and green onions add, it makes the whole dish more flavorful and exciting than your everyday veggie pancake.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower: Loaded with fiber and vitamins, it adds crunch and nutrition.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides protein and fats.

  Adds rich flavor and a tangy kick.

• Eggs: Bind ingredients and supply protein.

  Helps create a soft, cohesive batter.

• Flour: Gives structure and carbohydrates.

  Ensures the fritter holds together perfectly.

• Green Onions: Adds fresh flavor and a slight bite.

  Sprinkles in extra vitamins.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups of florets)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

How to Make this

1. Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets, about 4 cups worth.

2. Boil or steam the florets until they’re just tender, then drain well and let cool slightly.

3. In a large bowl, lightly mash the cauliflower with a fork so there are still some chunks for texture.

4. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup chopped green onions into the bowl.

5. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, along with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Mix everything together until it’s just combined, don’t overmix or the fritters might get too dense.

7. Heat a thin layer of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.

8. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each fritter and flatten slightly in the pan to form pancakes.

9. Fry each side for about 3 minutes or until golden and crisp.

10. Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any extra oil before serving warm.

Equipment Needed

1. A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the cauliflower and green onions
2. A large pot or steamer along with a steamer basket to boil or steam the cauliflower
3. A colander to drain the cauliflower after cooking
4. A large mixing bowl for combining all the ingredients
5. A fork for lightly mashing the cauliflower in the bowl
6. Measuring cups and spoons to portion the cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper
7. A large frying pan for cooking the fritters over medium heat
8. A spatula to flip the fritters during frying
9. Paper towels to drain the excess oil once they’re done cooking

FAQ

Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters (Pancakes) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Cauliflower: You can swap it for broccoli, which gives a slightly different crunch and flavor.
• Cheddar cheese: Try using pepper jack if you want a bit more spice, or even mozzarella if you’re out of cheddar.
• All-purpose flour: Almond flour or oat flour works in a pinch, though it might change the texture a bit.
• Eggs: For a vegan take, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit until it thickens.
• Green onions: Chopped chives or even a bit of red onion can be used if you dont have any on hand.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you squeeze out as much water from the cauliflower as you can after boiling it or else your fritters might turn out soggy.
2. When you mix your ingredients, try not to overdo it becuz a gentle mix keeps the fritters light and airy instead of turning ’em all dense and clumpy.
3. Use a spatula to press the fritters a bit while frying so they get an even and nice crispy side on each side without burning.
4. Adjust the seasonings at the end; sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper right after cooking can really bring out the flavor.