These zucchini and carrot fritters are a perfect example of how healthy food doesn’t need to be bland. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with fresh vegetables, they’re the kind of snack that feels indulgent without weighing you down.
What makes them even better? They’re completely vegan, naturally gluten-free, and made with minimal oil thanks to the air fryer. Whether you enjoy them as a light lunch, a starter, or a healthy snack, these fritters bring vibrant flavor to your table with every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini-Carrot Fritters
Unlike deep-fried fritters, which can be heavy, this recipe is air-fried—meaning you get all the crispiness without the excess oil. The combination of zucchini and carrots not only adds moisture and natural sweetness but also boosts the nutrient profile with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. And since they’re bound together with gram flour (besan) and rice flour, they’re egg-free and dairy-free, making them a versatile option for plant-based eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into these fritters:
- Zucchini (2 medium, grated): Adds moisture and a tender texture.
- Carrots (2 medium, grated): Sweetness and color to balance zucchini’s mild flavor.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): For depth and aroma.
- Green chilies (3–4 small, finely chopped): A touch of heat (adjust to taste).
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Savory punch.
- Gram flour (5–6 tbsp): Provides structure and binding.
- Rice flour (4 tbsp): Ensures crispiness.
- Roasted cumin powder (½ tsp): Earthy, warm flavor.
- Salt: To taste.
- Oil spray: For greasing the air fryer tray.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Grate the zucchini and carrots. Zucchini holds a lot of water, so place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze firmly, and remove as much moisture as possible. This step prevents soggy fritters.
2. Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine grated zucchini, carrots, onion, green chilies, garlic, gram flour, rice flour, cumin powder, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be thick enough to hold shape when pressed. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra gram flour.
3. Shape the Fritters
Scoop small portions and form into patties—either round kabab-style or slightly flattened discs for more crisp edges.
4. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Lightly spray your air fryer tray with oil. Place the fritters in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve Hot
Enjoy them warm with plain vegan yogurt, mint chutney, or a spicy tomato dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini. This is key to avoiding watery fritters.
- Test one fritter first. If it falls apart, add more gram flour for binding.
- Spice it up. Add chili flakes, coriander powder, or even a pinch of turmeric for extra flavor.
- Make ahead. Shape the fritters in advance and refrigerate. Just air fry when ready to serve.
Why Use Gram Flour and Rice Flour?
Gram flour, made from chickpeas, is a popular ingredient in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. It binds the mixture without eggs, making it ideal for vegan recipes. Rice flour, on the other hand, adds lightness and crunch, creating that irresistible crispy edge. Together, they strike the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Variations You Can Try
- Add herbs: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or dill work beautifully.
- Swap veggies: Replace some zucchini with grated sweet potato, spinach, or corn.
- Cheesy twist (non-vegan): Add a handful of shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
- Spiced version: Mix in garam masala or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With Zucchini-Carrot Fritters
These fritters are versatile enough to be enjoyed in different ways:
- As a snack or appetizer with chutney or hot sauce.
- Tucked inside a wrap or pita with hummus and salad.
- Served with a fresh side salad for a light meal.
- Paired with quinoa or rice bowls for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.
- Freeze: Arrange uncooked patties on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Cook directly from frozen (add a few extra minutes).
Nutritional Benefits
These fritters are as nourishing as they are tasty. Zucchini provides hydration and antioxidants, while carrots deliver beta-carotene for eye health. Gram flour adds protein and fiber, making them more filling than typical fried snacks. Best of all, the air fryer method cuts down oil, keeping them lighter without sacrificing crunch.
Crispy Zucchini & Carrot Fritters (Air Fryer, Vegan & Gluten-Free)
Ingredients
Method
- Grate zucchini and carrots. Place zucchini in a clean cloth or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, carrots, onion, chilies, garlic, gram flour, rice flour, cumin powder, and salt. Mix until evenly combined. Adjust with more gram flour if mixture feels too wet.
- Scoop portions of the mixture and form into small patties or kabab-style rounds.
- Lightly spray the air fryer tray with oil. Arrange fritters in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve warm with vegan yogurt, mint chutney, or spicy tomato dip.
Notes
- Squeezing excess water from zucchini is essential to avoid soggy fritters.
- Adjust the binding with more gram flour if the mixture feels too wet.
- Fritters can be shaped ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to air fry.
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