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Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters

Name: Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (2.5-3 pounds); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped; Vegetable oil for frying

There’s something undeniably satisfying about turning a humble vegetable into a crispy, golden delight that never fails to impress. Today, we’re diving into the world of juicy butternut squash fritters, a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but offers a wonderful way to enjoy one of fall’s favorite squashes. These fritters are bursting with flavor and texture, perfect for a cozy dinner, a brunch spread, or even as a carefree snack. Trust us — your friends and family will be reaching for seconds!

Why Make This Recipe

Packed with nutrients, butternut squash offers a natural sweetness that shines through in every bite.
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fritters provide a delightful contrast in texture.
They are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a hearty main!

If you’re looking for a new favorite fritter recipe, you’ve discovered a gem that’s not only simple but also incredibly rewarding to make.

Easy Method for Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on creating these delightful fritters. The process is straightforward, and you’ll soon be basking in the aromas wafting from your kitchen. Ready to begin? Here’s how to make juicy butternut squash fritters that will have everyone coming back for more.

Prepare the Butternut Squash

First, take one medium butternut squash weighing between 2.5 and 3 pounds. Start by peeling the squash. Slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and fibrous strands with a spoon. This step sets the stage for the luscious fritters that are to follow.

Grate the Squash

Using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor fitted with a grating attachment, finely grate all of your prepared butternut squash. Aim for a texture that’s not too coarse to promote better binding in the fritters.

Remove Excess Moisture – Crucial!

This step is essential for achieving the right fritter consistency. Place the grated butternut squash into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist firmly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This vital technique will help prevent soggy fritters.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), baking powder, smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. This mixture sets the flavor for the fritters, so mix well.

Add Wet Ingredients

With the dry ingredients ready, it’s time to add some moisture. To the mixture, add the lightly beaten eggs and the minced garlic. Stir well until just combined. You want everything to blend without overmixing, which can lead to tough fritters.

Incorporate Squash and Herbs

Now comes the best part! Add your squeezed grated butternut squash, along with the finely chopped fresh parsley and finely chopped fresh sage to the bowl. Mix gently until the squash and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Rest the Batter

Cover the bowl and let the fritter batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the batter to hydrate, thus helping the fritters hold their shape when they hit the frying oil.

Heat the Frying Oil

While the batter rests, pour about 1.5 to 2 inches of vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat to reach a temperature of 350-360°F (175-180°C). Ensuring that the oil is properly heated is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown fritter.

Form and Fry the Fritters

Once the oil is hot, carefully drop spoonfuls (about 2-tablespoon size) of the batter into the hot oil, forming roughly 2-inch patties. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the temperature. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are deeply golden brown and cooked through.

Drain Excess Oil

As each batch finishes cooking, remove fritters with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This is essential for preserving the fritters’ crispy texture.

Keep Warm

If frying multiple batches, keep cooked fritters warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in an oven preheated to 200°F (90°C).

Combine Sauce Ingredients

While the fritters are frying, it’s time to whip together a delicious dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, finely chopped fresh dill, finely chopped fresh chives, and fresh lemon juice. This sauce adds a creamy herbaceous contrast that pairs beautifully with the fritters.

Season and Mix Sauce

Add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to the sauce, or to taste. Stir everything together until well combined and smooth. For the best flavor, chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes.

Plate and Garnish

Once the fritters are perfectly golden-brown and the sauce is ready, it’s time to plate! Arrange the warm fritters on a serving platter and dollop the creamy herb dipping sauce alongside, or place it in a small bowl for easy dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs or a sprinkle of extra chopped chives to add a pop of color.

Enjoy!

Serve your juicy butternut squash fritters immediately as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light lunch. A fresh squeeze of lemon over the finished fritters is a remarkable touch that brings the whole dish together!

Storage Tips for Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters

To maintain the deliciousness of your leftover fritters, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate: Store fritters in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain the crispiness.

Best Ways to Serve Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters

These fritters are unbelievably versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some great ways to present them:

As a Starter: Serve hot, straight from the frying pan, on a platter garnished with fresh herbs. They make for an impressive appetizer at gatherings.
Paired with Salads: These fritters can complement a light salad, such as arugula or kale salad, topped with a simple vinaigrette.
With Dipping Sauces: Try varying your dipping sauce! Besides the creamy herb sauce, consider a zesty salsa, a tangy yogurt sauce, or even a spicy aioli for a fun twist.
On Sweet Bread: Serve on a lightly toasted slice of sweet bread or cornbread for a comforting main dish.

Tips to Make Juicy Butternut Squash Fritters

Key Tip: Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated squash. This ensures crispy fritters that don’t fall apart.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact. The combination of parsley and sage truly elevates this dish.
Experiment with the seasonings to suit your taste. Adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes can provide an extra kick.
Don’t skip on the resting time for the batter; it’s crucial for the fritters to hold their shape.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:

Cheese Variations: Try different kinds of cheese instead of Parmesan, like feta or goat cheese, to alter the flavor profile.
Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier fritter, add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the batter for an added kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before frying.

Q: Can I use frozen butternut squash?
A: While fresh squash provides the best texture, you can use frozen grated butternut squash. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.

Q: How do I keep these fritters crispy?

Ensure the oil is hot before adding the fritters.
Drain on paper towels after frying.
Avoid stacking fritters while they cool.

Prepare yourself for an enjoyable cooking experience with these juicy butternut squash fritters. Not only will they please your palate, but they will also impress anyone fortunate enough to share them with you. Happy cooking!