If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up cabbage and carrots, these Air Fryer Cabbage Fritters are a must-try. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with nutritious vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal oil, this recipe transforms humble veggies into a savory snack, side dish, or light meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need a quick appetizer, these fritters are ready in minutes thanks to the air fryer. Plus, they’re healthier than pan-fried versions and packed with fiber and flavor!
Why These Air Fryer Cabbage Fritters Are a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Healthy Option: Air-fried with minimal oil for a lighter version of traditional fritters.
- Great for All Diets: Easily adaptable to vegetarian or gluten-free with small swaps.
- Perfect Texture: Baking soda gives these fritters a light, fluffy inside and a crispy, golden exterior.
- Versatile Flavor: Season with your favorite herbs and spices for a custom twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make these flavorful fritters:
- 2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (plus more for serving if desired)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Adds lightness and puffiness to the fritters
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon seasoning blend – Try Mrs. Dash or your favorite no-salt seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped green onions
- Minced garlic
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Food processor or box grater (for shredding)
- Silicone brush or oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make perfect cabbage fritters every time:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and crisping.
2. Prep the Vegetables
Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and finely shred it. You can use a food processor for ease and speed. Do the same with the carrot. Aim for small, thin pieces to ensure quick cooking and even texture.
3. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped carrot, salt, pepper, seasoning blend, sour cream, baking soda, egg, and flour. Stir well until everything is thoroughly coated.
4. Shape the Fritters
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a ball. If the mixture sticks to your hands, slightly wet your palms with water.
Place the balls in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or on the tray. Gently flatten each ball with a spoon into a pancake shape, about ½-inch thick.
5. Brush or Spray with Oil
Lightly brush each fritter with olive oil or use a cooking spray. This promotes a golden, crispy finish.
6. Air Fry
Air fry the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden brown with caramelized edges. Use tongs or a spatula to flip gently halfway through.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the fritters cool for a few minutes after air frying. Serve warm or at room temperature. Top with a dollop of sour cream, or dip them into your favorite sauce like garlicky chipotle mayo, ranch dressing, or Greek yogurt dip.
Delicious Dipping Sauce Ideas
These fritters taste amazing on their own but pair beautifully with a dip! Try one of these:
- Garlicky Chipotle Mayo – A smoky, spicy twist that adds kick.
- Sour Cream and Chive Dip – Classic and cooling.
- Honey Mustard Sauce – Sweet and tangy for balance.
- Greek Yogurt Dill Dip – Creamy, light, and refreshing.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh cabbage and carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the baking soda! It’s what makes the fritters light instead of dense.
- Customize with herbs and spices. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even curry powder for a flavor twist.
- Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer – cook in batches if needed.
- Drain excess liquid from veggies before mixing if your cabbage is too watery.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Version: Swap egg with flaxseed egg and use a dairy-free sour cream.
- Add Cheese: Stir in ¼ cup of grated cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) for extra richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the mix.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.
- Freeze: Lay cooled fritters in a single layer and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your cabbage fritters as:
- A light lunch or dinner with a side salad.
- A savory appetizer or snack for parties.
- A unique side dish for soups or grilled meats.
- A great vegetarian main topped with poached eggs or hummus.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Cabbage Fritters are the perfect way to turn basic ingredients into something crispy, savory, and satisfying. With simple prep and big flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your air fryer rotation. Whether served fresh out of the basket or packed in a lunchbox, these veggie-packed fritters are a crowd-pleaser every time.