Beetroot Chickpea Fritters with Whipped Feta
These fritters combine earthy beets and protein-rich chickpeas with fresh herbs for a nutritious, vibrant dish. They’re pan-fried until golden and served with a tangy, creamy whipped feta dip that balances the sweetness of beetroot. Great as a light lunch, appetizer, or part of a mezze spread.
⏱ Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the fritters:
2 medium beetroots, peeled and grated
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
½ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
Salt & black pepper to taste
2–3 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
For whipped feta:
150g feta cheese
3 tbsp Greek yogurt (or labneh)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the fritter mixture:
In a food processor, pulse chickpeas until roughly mashed.
Transfer to a bowl and mix with grated beetroot, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, paprika, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Stir until the mixture holds together. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
2. Shape fritters:
Scoop 2 tablespoons of mixture, shape into small patties, and place on a tray.
3. Cook fritters:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook fritters in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until crisp and golden.
4. Make whipped feta:
Blend feta, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve:
Spread whipped feta on a plate or bowl.
Place fritters on top and drizzle with extra olive oil.
Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon zest, or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.
Notes & Tips
Roasted beets (instead of raw) make the fritters sweeter and less earthy.
To bake instead of fry: brush fritters with olive oil, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 min, flipping halfway.
Pairs well with a side salad of arugula, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Store cooked fritters in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Q: What if I don’t eat dairy?
Swap whipped feta with a vegan cashew cream or tahini-lemon dip.
Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes! Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g