Butternut Squash Fritters Recipe

Butternut squash: Provides a sweet and nutty flavor with a tender texture when cooked.

Onion: Adds a savory depth and slight sweetness to the fritters.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent to hold the fritter mixture together.

Almond flour: A gluten-free alternative to regular flour, adding a nutty flavor and light texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the fritters.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Ground nutmeg: Provides a warm, slightly sweet spice that complements the butternut squash.

Olive oil: Used for frying, it adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture.

When preparing the butternut squash, make sure to use a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment to achieve a fine and even texture. This ensures that the fritters cook evenly and hold together well. Additionally, after grating, you can place the squash in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step helps prevent the fritters from becoming too soggy and ensures a crispier result.

• Butternut squash - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potato has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a great alternative for fritters.

• Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and a hint of sweetness, which can enhance the overall taste of the fritters.

• Eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This mixture acts as a binder, similar to eggs, and is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

• Almond flour - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour is also gluten-free and provides a slightly sweet flavor that complements the butternut squash.

• Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a more natural flavor.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist to the fritters.

• Ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides a warm, sweet spice that pairs well with the butternut squash.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it ideal for frying fritters.

• Allow the butternut squash fritters to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures they don't stick together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and freeze the fritters for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This is called flash freezing and helps maintain their shape and texture.
• Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date for easy reference.
• Store the fritters in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, consume them within this time frame to enjoy their optimal flavor and texture.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat until warmed and crispy.
• If you prefer to store the fritters in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They will keep for up to 3 days.
• Reheat refrigerated fritters in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until they regain their crispiness.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover butternut squash fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method helps retain their original texture and flavor.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the fritters in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and crispy. This method is quick and helps maintain the fritters' crispiness.

• Microwave Method: Place the fritters on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated. This method is the fastest but may result in a softer texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the fritters in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method helps to restore their crispiness effectively.

• Grater: used to grate the butternut squash into fine shreds for the fritter mixture

• Knife: essential for finely chopping the onion

• Cutting board: provides a stable surface for chopping the onion

• Mixing bowl: where all the ingredients are combined and mixed together

• Spoon: used to scoop the mixture into the frying pan and flatten it slightly

• Frying pan: where the fritters are cooked until golden brown

• Spatula: helps to flip the fritters to ensure they are cooked evenly on both sides

• Paper towels: used to drain the excess oil from the fritters after frying

• Measuring cups: for accurately measuring the grated butternut squash and almond flour

• Measuring spoons: for measuring the salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg

• Stove: provides the heat source for frying the fritters

Prepare ingredients in advance: Grate the butternut squash and chop the onion the night before to save time on busy days.

Use a food processor: Speed up the grating process by using a food processor instead of a manual grater.

Preheat the pan: Start heating the olive oil while mixing the ingredients to save a few minutes.

Batch cooking: Make a double batch and freeze the extra fritters for a quick meal later.

Use a cookie scoop: For uniform fritters, use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture quickly and evenly.