Kolokythokeftedes (Cypriot Zucchini Fritters)
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these savory zucchini fritters are a popular meze item in Cyprus, flavored with fresh herbs and feta cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Zucchini(grated)
- 150 g Feta cheese(crumbled)
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Fresh mint(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 3 stalks Green onions(finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- for frying Olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, chopped parsley, and chopped green onions.
- 3
In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs. Add them to the zucchini mixture along with the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable.
- 4
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 5
Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- 6
Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- 7
Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 8
Serve hot, often with a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Squeezing out the zucchini moisture is crucial for crispy fritters.
- ✓Adjust the amount of flour if the batter is too wet or too dry.
- ✓You can add a pinch of dried oregano for extra flavor.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior.
🔄 Variations
- Add a small amount of grated halloumi for a different cheesy flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.