Potato Cheese Fritters with Garlic and Spring Onion

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Grate the Potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes using a coarse grater. Once grated, place the potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture. This step helps keep the fritters from becoming soggy.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped spring onions, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
2. Add the Egg and Flour: Crack the egg into the bowl and add the flour. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and easy to form into patties. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour to help bind the ingredients together.
3. Add Breadcrumbs: Stir in the breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture.

Step 3: Form the Fritters

1. Shape the Fritters: Using your hands or a spoon, take small portions of the mixture and form them into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide.

Step 4: Fry the Fritters

1. Heat the Oil: Heat a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for frying.
2. Fry the Fritters: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the fritters to the pan, cooking them in batches if necessary. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain Excess Oil: Once the fritters are crispy and golden, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Hot: Serve the fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream, ketchup, or a yogurt-based sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a side salad or as part of a larger meal.
2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped spring onions or a dash of paprika for color.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Cheese Fritters:

1. Squeeze the Moisture Out: Be sure to squeeze as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes. This helps the fritters become crispy when fried.
2. Adjust Cheese: You can use any cheese you prefer, but cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of both works great in these fritters.
3. Coating: For an extra crispy coating, you can dip the fritters in some flour or breadcrumbs before frying.
4. Make Them Ahead: You can prepare the fritter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before frying.
5. Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, you can also cook these fritters in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations:

• Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables, like grated carrots or zucchini, to the mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Fritters: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for some heat.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or dill to the fritters for extra freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Potato Cheese Fritters with Garlic and Spring Onion are crispy, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful. They make the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion, and they’re quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy them whenever the craving strikes. Whether you serve them as part of a meal or on their own with a delicious dipping sauce, these fritters are sure to be a hit! Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!