Crispy Cauliflower Fritters with Herbed Cheddar Dip

Welcome to a delightful evening with a dish that celebrates the humble cauliflower with a modern twist. These crispy cauliflower fritters paired with a herbed cheddar dip are not only a feast to the eyes but a delightful treat to the taste buds. Crafted with precision, this vegetarian dish is a symphony of textures and flavors that respect the dietary constraints of lactose, additives, and common allergens.

Ingredients

• 1 small cauliflower (approx. 500 grams)
• 100 grams plain flour
• 1 egg
• 60 grams cheddar, grated
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 100 ml lactose-free milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Method

• Begin by cutting the cauliflower into small florets and steaming them until tender, about 7-10 minutes.
• Once the cauliflower is cooked, mash it lightly with a fork to break it into smaller pieces, but not into a puree.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, egg, grated cheddar, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, pepper, baking powder, and garlic powder. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
• Fold the mashed cauliflower into the batter, mixing until the cauliflower is well coated.
• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan and flatten them gently with the back of the spoon to form fritters.
• Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden and crispy. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
• In a small bowl, combine the lactose-free milk, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme to create the dip. Mix well until smooth.
• Serve the cauliflower fritters hot with the herbed cheddar dip on the side.

Tips

• For an extra crispy texture, ensure the cauliflower florets are well drained and not too wet before mixing them into the batter.
• Serve with a side of fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• Feel free to add a pinch of chili powder to the batter for an added kick of heat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per 100g	Per Serving
Energy	150 kcal (628 kJ)	300 kcal (1257 kJ)
Fat	8g	16g
Saturated Fat	3g	6g
Carbohydrates	12g	24g
Sugars	2g	4g
Proteins	6g	12g
Salt	1g	2g