In the culinary world, the fusion of flavors from different cultures often leads to delightful creations that excite the taste buds and transport us to distant lands. Today, we are putting a Lebanese twist on a classic dish by introducing you to Zucchini Fritters Aji. These golden, crispy fritters are not only a delicious appetizer or snack but also a perfect way to make use of an abundance of zucchinis in a flavorful and exciting manner.
Zucchini Fritters Aji
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated zucchinis in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Transfer the squeezed zucchinis to a mixing bowl.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the zucchinis. Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
3. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
4. Once the oil is hot, spoon the zucchini mixture into the skillet, forming small fritters with a spoon. Flatten the fritters slightly with the back of the spoon.
5. Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
6. Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve the Zucchini Fritters Aji warm, garnished with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of sumac for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy these Lebanese-inspired Zucchini Fritters Aji as a delicious appetizer, a side dish, or even as a light meal paired with a fresh salad. The combination of the crispy exterior, the tender zucchini, and the hint of spices will make this dish a favorite in your culinary repertoire. These fritters are perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or whenever you feel like adding a touch of Middle Eastern flair to your table. Experiment with different toppings or dips to customize the fritters to your liking. Give this recipe a try and let the flavors take you on a culinary journey to the enchanting streets of Lebanon.
