These fritters are the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into something truly delicious. They’re naturally vegetarian, can be made gluten-free, and are a great way to add more veggies to your meal. Best of all, they’re ready in under 30 minutes and make use of frozen peas, so you can enjoy them year-round. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—these fritters are irresistibly good.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Green peas (fresh or thawed from frozen)
All-purpose flour or chickpea flour
Egg
Garlic (minced)
Green onions or chives (finely chopped)
Fresh mint or parsley (chopped)
Lemon zest (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Baking powder
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
In a mixing bowl, mash the peas slightly with a fork or potato masher—leave some whole for texture.
Add flour, egg, garlic, herbs, lemon zest (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined into a thick batter.
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the batter into the pan, flattening slightly to form small patties.
Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with a dip like yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or sour cream.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10–12 small fritters, serving 3–4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes. Total time: 25 minutes.
Variations
Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).
Cheesy Fritters: Add grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped chili.
Zucchini Pea Fritters: Mix in grated zucchini (squeeze out moisture first) for more veggies.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until crisp and heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven or air fryer for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned peas?
Fresh or frozen peas are best. Canned peas are too soft and can make the batter mushy.
How do I keep fritters from falling apart?
Make sure your batter is thick enough and don’t flip them too early—let them set and brown on the first side before turning.
What dip goes well with these?
Yogurt with lemon and herbs, sour cream, or a garlic aioli are all great options.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and store them in the fridge or freezer, then reheat when ready to serve.
Are these good for kids?
Definitely! They’re soft inside, flavorful, and fun to eat—perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, place them on a lined baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I make the fritters crispier?
Make sure the oil is hot before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels after frying.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely—try grated carrot, corn, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Do I need a food processor?
No, just a fork or potato masher will do for mashing the peas and mixing the batter.
What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve warm as a snack, side dish, or light main with a salad and dipping sauce.
Conclusion
Crispy Pea Fritters are a quick, tasty way to turn simple pantry ingredients into something special. They’re easy to whip up, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or meatless meal, these golden fritters are sure to become a go-to favorite.
Crispy Pea Fritters are golden, pan-fried bites made with green peas, fresh herbs, and savory seasonings. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, they’re a quick and easy vegetarian option perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light main.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:10–12 fritters (serves 3–4)
Category:Appetizer
Method:Pan-Fried
Cuisine:Vegetarian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups green peas (fresh or thawed from frozen)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
1 large egg
1 clove garlic, minced
2 green onions or chives, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint or parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp baking powder
2–3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, slightly mash the peas with a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole for texture.
Add flour, egg, garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest (if using), baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until a thick batter forms.
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Scoop heaping tablespoons of batter into the pan and flatten slightly into patties.
Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with your favorite dip, such as yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or sour cream.
Notes
Use chickpea or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.Swap the egg for a flax egg to make it vegan.Add chili flakes or grated cheese for extra flavor.Mix in grated zucchini (squeeze out moisture) for added veggies.To bake instead of fry, brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.