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These crispy kohlrabi fritters are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional vegetable pancakes. Mild and slightly sweet, kohlrabi becomes beautifully tender when grated and pan-fried, making it perfect for sneaking more veggies into kid-approved meals. The fritters are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and pair wonderfully with sour cream, yogurt dip, or even ketchup for picky eaters.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

2 medium kohlrabi, peeled and grated
1 small carrot, peeled and grated (optional for sweetness and color)
1 small onion, finely grated or minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or chives (optional for flavor)
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Place the grated kohlrabi, carrot (if using), and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crisp fritters.
Transfer the squeezed mixture to a large bowl. Add minced garlic, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs if using. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per fritter into the hot skillet, flattening slightly with a spatula.
Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.
Serve warm with sour cream, yogurt dip, or a squeeze of lemon.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 110
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 180mg
Potassium: 270mg
Vitamin A: 20% DV
Vitamin C: 50% DV
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 4% DV

The Versatility of Kohlrabi in Fritters

Kohlrabi is a wonderfully underrated vegetable that shines in fritter form due to its mild flavor and crisp texture. It belongs to the brassica family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale, and offers a slightly sweet, peppery bite. When grated and fried, it softens just enough to be tender on the inside while providing structure for a perfectly golden exterior. This makes kohlrabi fritters a fantastic way to introduce children and adults alike to this nutritious vegetable, especially for those who are new to it. The neutral flavor also allows it to pair beautifully with a variety of seasonings and dipping sauces.

Nutritional Benefits of Kohlrabi Fritters

Kohlrabi is low in calories but rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making these fritters a surprisingly healthy option compared to other fried snacks. The fiber content helps with digestion and supports a feeling of fullness, while vitamin C boosts immunity and skin health. By incorporating ingredients like carrots and herbs, you can further enhance the nutritional profile of the fritters. Using whole grain or chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour adds additional fiber and protein, making this dish not just tasty but beneficial to your diet.

Kid-Friendly Appeal and Texture

What sets kohlrabi fritters apart as a kid-friendly option is their crispy texture and subtle flavor. When fried to a golden brown, the outside becomes irresistibly crunchy, while the inside stays tender and moist—perfect for picky eaters who may reject more fibrous or leafy vegetables. You can even sneak in grated carrots or zucchini for extra nutrients without compromising flavor. Serving them with a familiar condiment like ketchup, ranch, or sour cream further boosts their appeal to young palates.

Creative Ingredient Variations

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. While the base of kohlrabi, egg, and flour remains constant, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Add shredded sweet potato or parsnip for a sweeter taste, or incorporate chopped spinach and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. For spicier palates, finely diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add heat. Gluten-free flour blends or almond flour can be used for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that the fritters are accessible to a wide audience.

Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion

Kohlrabi fritters are incredibly versatile and can be served in multiple ways depending on the occasion. As an appetizer, they work well with a variety of dipping sauces such as tzatziki, garlic aioli, or a spicy yogurt dip. For lunch, stack a few fritters on a plate with a side salad or tuck them into a pita with hummus and fresh vegetables. They also make a tasty breakfast or brunch option when served with poached eggs and avocado. Because of their simple yet satisfying flavor, they complement a wide range of accompaniments.

Pairing with Dips and Sauces

The right dipping sauce can elevate kohlrabi fritters to a new level. A tangy yogurt-based dip adds creaminess and freshness, balancing the crisp texture of the fritters. Sour cream mixed with lemon zest and dill is another excellent option. For those who enjoy heat, a spicy chipotle mayo or sriracha-lime dip brings bold flavor. Mustard-based dips or even a light vinaigrette can also work well, especially if you’re serving the fritters cold or at room temperature as part of a party platter.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover kohlrabi fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain their crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in a skillet with a light layer of oil or in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving them if possible, as this can make the texture soggy. For longer storage, the cooked fritters can be frozen with layers of parchment paper between them. Reheat from frozen by baking or pan-frying directly without thawing for the best results.

Making Fritters Ahead of Time

If you’re planning a gathering or simply want to prep meals in advance, these fritters are an excellent make-ahead option. The mixture can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can fry the fritters ahead of time and keep them warm in a low oven until serving. This makes them especially useful for brunches or parties where timing multiple dishes can be challenging. Their flavor and texture hold up well even after sitting for a while.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Adaptations

Kohlrabi fritters can easily be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets. Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour, both of which provide a great texture. To make the recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or use a commercial egg replacer. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, while mashed chickpeas or grated tofu can provide body and protein. These substitutions keep the fritters inclusive and enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Cultural and Regional Inspirations

While this recipe has a modern, health-conscious feel, vegetable fritters are found in many cultures around the world. Jewish latkes, Indian pakoras, and Korean kimchi pancakes all share a similar technique of frying shredded vegetables into savory cakes. By drawing inspiration from these global cuisines, you can add spices like turmeric, cumin, or gochujang to bring a different flair to your kohlrabi fritters. Exploring these influences allows the dish to become a culinary canvas for experimentation.

Conclusion

Kohlrabi fritters are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something delightfully tasty, nutritious, and family-friendly. Whether you’re serving them as a light meal, a snack, or part of a larger spread, their crisp exterior and tender interior are sure to please a variety of palates. With countless variations and adaptable cooking methods, these fritters are as versatile as they are satisfying. Add them to your rotation for a wholesome, budget-friendly dish that never gets boring.

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