Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters – Looking for a tasty and crispy snack? This Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters recipe. Is a delightful blend of flavors. That’s perfect for a light meal. Or appetizer. Made with cauliflower, and paneer. And a blend of spices. These fritters are served with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. It’s a unique dish. That brings together a crispy texture. With rich flavors. Try it for your next snack craving!
The first time I made these Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters. I was trying to create something different. For my family. I remember my husband. Raising an eyebrow in curiosity. As he peeked into the kitchen. And my kids asking, “What’s that yummy smell?” When we all sat down. To enjoy them. With the mint yogurt sauce. They disappeared in minutes! Now, it’s one of our go-to snacks. And they always bring back. The memory of that first delighted reaction.
What makes this Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters truly stand out?
This recipe stands out. With its combination of cauliflower and paneer. Giving the fritters a perfect balance of crispy. And creamy textures. The blend of aromatic spices. Like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and curry powder. Adds layers of flavor. While the coconut milk. Brings a subtle sweetness. Plus, the refreshing mint yogurt sauce. Takes this dish to the next level. Making it an irresistible snack or appetizer. For any occasion.
What You Need To Make This Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters Recipe?
Cauliflower: The star of these fritters! Cauliflower is mild. But has this wonderful way of soaking up. All the spices. Making each bite full of flavor. Plus, it’s super nutritious. And gives these fritters a light, tender texture. You’d be surprised how it transforms. Into something so satisfying!
Paneer Cheese: Paneer is a rich, non-melting cheese. That adds a creamy contrast. To the crispiness of the fritters. It soaks up the spice blend. And gives you little pockets of savory goodness. If you haven’t cooked much with paneer. This is the perfect dish. To fall in love with it.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbiness. That balances out the warmth of the spices. It lifts the whole dish. With its bright and slightly citrusy flavor—don’t skip it. Even if you’re on the fence about cilantro!
Spices (Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Curry Powder): These spices are the soul of the fritters. Turmeric brings that gorgeous golden color. And earthy depth. While cumin and coriander. Add warm, nutty flavors. A pinch of curry powder ties it all together. With a hint of warmth. And the red pepper flakes add just a whisper of heat. If you’re feeling bold.
Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds a rich creaminess. That keeps the fritters soft on the inside. While helping the batter hold together. It also complements the spices beautifully. Giving the fritters a subtle sweetness. That pairs perfectly. With the warm spice profile.
Coconut Oil: Not only does coconut oil give the fritters their golden crunch. But it also infuses them. With a delicate, sweet aroma. It’s the perfect frying oil. For these little bites of heaven. And adds that extra layer of flavor. That takes these fritters. To the next level.
Greek Yogurt: For the sauce. Greek yogurt is a must. It’s creamy, tangy, and thick. Making it the perfect cooling counterpart. To the warm, spiced fritters. Plus, it’s so simple to mix up. Yet it adds a refreshing twist. That cuts through the richness.
Cucumber: This little guy. Brings a crunchy, cooling bite to the sauce. Making every fritter feel lighter. And fresher. It’s like the perfect balance. To the richness of the fritters. You’ll love how it ties the dish together.
Fresh Mint: Fresh mint is a small. But mighty ingredient here! It’s cooling, slightly sweet. And pairs so well. With the yogurt and cucumber. It takes the sauce from good to wow. And gives a little extra burst of freshness. With every bite.
Steps To Make Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters:
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower: Start by pulsing. The cauliflower, paneer, and cilantro. In a food processor. Until smooth. And no large chunks remain. Season lightly with salt. And pepper.
Step 2: Make Fritter Batter: In a large mixing bowl. Combine flour, turmeric, cumin, coriander, curry powder, red pepper flakes, and baking powder. Stir in the coconut milk. And beaten egg. Until smooth. Fold the cauliflower mixture. Into the batter. Mixing gently until combined. Add a pinch of salt. And pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Fritters: Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. In a large skillet. Over medium heat. Drop the fritter batter. Into the skillet. By ¼ cup portions. Flatten slightly. And cook for 3-4 minutes. On each side. Or until they’re golden brown. And crispy. Add more oil as needed. For additional batches. Place the fritters. On a plate lined with paper towels. To absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Mint Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl. Stir together the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, and chopped mint. And a pinch of salt. And pepper.
Step 5: Serve: Arrange the fritters. On a platter. And serve with the mint yogurt sauce. On the side. Enjoy these crispy delights. While they’re still warm!
Tip:
For an extra crispy texture. Ensure the fritters are cooked in batches. And not overcrowded in the pan. This allows each fritter. To fry evenly. And get golden brown all around. Additionally, try squeezing a bit of lime juice. Over the fritters right before serving. To bring out the flavors of the cauliflower and paneer. If you want to add a little more kick. Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper. Or red chili flakes. Into the yogurt dipping sauce. For an extra layer of heat. That complements the spices in the fritters.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the fritters ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time. And refrigerate it. For up to 24 hours. Fry the fritters fresh. When you’re ready to serve. For maximum crispiness.
Can I use a different oil for frying?
Absolutely. While coconut oil adds a nice flavor. You can also use vegetable oil. Or any neutral cooking oil for frying.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover fritters can be stored. In an airtight container. In the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot skillet or oven. To bring back the crispiness.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Crispy Cauliflower Paneer Fritters
Ingredients
For the fritters:
- 1/2 head cauliflower broken into small florets
- 7 ounces paneer cheese diced
- 1/2 c fresh cilantro chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ c all-purpose flour
- 3 tsp ground turmeric
- 3 tsp cumin powder
- 3 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp curry powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or adjust to taste
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 1 15 ounces can coconut milk
- 1/2 c coconut oil split for frying
For the sauce and garnish:
- 1/3 c plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small Persian cucumber diced
- 6 fresh mint leaves chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the cauliflower, paneer, and cilantro. In a food processor. Season with salt and pepper. Then pulse until everything is smooth. With no large chunks remaining.
- In a large bowl. Mix the dry fritter ingredients together. Excluding the oil. Gently fold the cauliflower mixture. Into the dry ingredients. Seasoning again with salt. And pepper to taste. Shape the batter. Into small patties. About 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil. In a skillet. Over medium-low heat. Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter per fritter. Into the pan. Frying for 3-4 minutes per side. Until golden brown. Drain them. On a plate. Lined with paper towels.
- For the yogurt sauce. Mix together the yogurt, cucumber. Mint, salt, and pepper. Serve the fritters hot. With a dollop of the yogurt sauce.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
