There are a lot of foods out there that we consider fritters. Most are savory, but then you’ll find the odd apple fritter thrown in there. But there’s one thing that all fritters have in common: they’re crispy, fried, and perfect for parties.
You can find savory fritters of all kinds across the world. In Japan, the best known is tempura, which are coated in panko breadcrumbs and then fried. In the United States, crab cakes are the best-known type of fritter. Try these Hearts of Baltimore Crab Cakes made from hearts of palm. France has fritters like these Banana Beignets and these Kabocha Croquettes. In Africa, you’ll find fritters like these Akara: Nigerian Fried Bean Balls. And India has countless types of fritters — recipes like these Beet Kola Undai are just one of many.
There’s no arguing that fritters are popular at parties, so at your next get-together, try something new with these 15 global fritters that’ll leave your guests absolutely stunned.
1. Kolokithokeftedes: Greek Squash Fritters
Kolokithokeftedes are Greek fritters that originate from the island of Crete, but now they can be found as an appetizer in most restaurants. The traditional recipe calls for eggs, but these Kolokithokeftedes are egg-free! Light and crispy and so jam packed with flavor, these traditional fried squash patties that will have your taste buds singing happy songs!
2. Corn and Bell Pepper Fritter
Did you know that corn fritters are popular in Australia and New Zealand? These colorful Corn and Bell Pepper Fritters are so versatile; they can be made large to be served as an entrée with veggies on the side or as bite-sized morsels topped with cashew sour cream for an appetizer. Sweet corn and red bell pepper are the perfect base for spicy chili pepper and fresh basil, though if you don’t have basil, and fresh herb will do. Whether you serve them for dinner or at a party, these crispy fritters will win you (and anyone else who eats them) over.
3. Acarajé: Brazilian Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
Acarajé is a Brazilian street food inspired by African akaras. Popular in Salvador and Olinda, they’re airy and fluffy on the inside and a little crispy on the outside. It’s an absolute must that you eat these while they’re hot — that’s when they’re at their best.
4. Spicy Sweet Potato Rosti
Rosti, also called roschti are originally a Swiss breakfast dish made from mildly seasoned grated potatoes that are pan-fried as a large pancake or fritter. These Spicy Sweet Potato Rosti are inspired by the original but they’re made with sweet potatoes and seasoned with ginger, curry leaves with added onions and bell peppers. Packed with flavor, these make amazing breakfast or brunch items, as well as appetizers. They absolutely have to be tried with vegan sour cream.
5. Baked Chakuli: Indian Rice Fritters
Traditionally chakuli is a deep-fried Indian snack prepared using rice, lentils, and different spices. This “instant” Baked Chakuli uses rice flour and is baked instead of fried, making them a delicious snack that satisfies your craving for something crunchy. They’re spicy, crunchy, savory, and irresistible.
6. Banana Akaras: Sierra Leone Banana Fritters
Akaras appear in a multitude of recipes throughout the world, both sweet and savory. These Banana Akaras are a favorite breakfast in Sierra Leone. Light and fluffy, but also gluten-free, the taste and texture of these fritters is like banana pancakes combined with doughnuts. They’re also ready in just 20 minutes, from start to finish, so they’re the perfect breakfast for your days off where you want to cook yourself breakfast, but don’t want to spend your entire morning in the kitchen.
7. Medhu Vada: Indian Savory Lentil Dumplings
Medhu Vada are a traditional South Indian fritter made from lentils which can be served as a main course, side dish, or snack. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, like a doughnut They are typically served warm with sambar and coconut chutney, though any kind of dipping sauce will do.
8. Sweet Potato and Apple Latkes
These Sweet Potato and Apple Latkes are a little sweet and a little tangy from the added onion and they’re perfect when paired with the creamy lemon tahini sauce. These can be ready in little to no time, so they also make a fantastic snack! Serve with kale if you’re craving leafy greens on the side.
9. Sabudana Vada: Indian Fried Dumplings
Sabudana Vada, also known as just sago vada’, is a traditional deep-fried snack from Maharashtra, India. Made with tapioca pearls, it’s crispy, savory, and best when served fresh. This snack can be served alone or with spicy green chutney or tomato ketchup. This vada is also a perfect accompaniment for a party or any type of gathering.
10. Jalapeño Zucchini Fritters
For a surefire crowd pleaser, include these Jalapeño Zucchini Fritters at your next get together. Their Mexican-inspired flavors provide a spicy kick and have a crispy exterior with a soft center. Serve these with avocado cream dip for a fun and delicious appetizer.
11. Spicy Cauliflower Fritters
These Spicy Cauliflower Fritters are bound to become your new weeknight favorite. They’re super quick to make, deliciously addictive, and gluten-free because they’re dredged in chickpea and rice flour. Seasoned with turmeric and paprika, these fritters definitely have a bite to them! Once you’re done with these, try a different vegetable!
12. Moong Dal Vada: Indian Savory Lentil Fritters
There are a lot of different Indian snacks that go by the name vada, a fried savory snack. Moong Dal Vada is a crispy, protein-rich and delicious evening tea time snacks made from whole green lentils and chana dal. For additional flavors, chopped curry leaves or coriander leaves or spinach or shredded carrot can be added to the batter. Serve this vada with coconut chutney or green chutney.
13. Onion Pakoras With Avocado Dipping Sauce
A pakora is an Indian snack that’s essentially a vegetable dipped in chickpea flour, so they’re naturally gluten-free, and then deep-fried until crispy. These savory Onion Pakoras are spiced with garlic, cumin, and curry powder and served with a cool, spicy, and creamy avocado dip. These are perfect as an appetizer or snack at any party.
14. Crab Cakes With Sweet Balsamic Mayo
Yes, crab cakes are fritters! Hailing from the United States, these crispy chickpea Crab Cakes With Sweet Balsamic Mayo are easy to whip up and taste very similar to traditional crab cakes. As they cook, your house will even smell a little like the seaside, thanks to the addition of dulse flakes. Serve with the sweet balsamic mayo on a toasted bun with a squeeze of lemon juice or try it on a salad
15. Papas Rellenas: Eggplant and Potato Croquettes
Papas Rellenas are a type of croquette popular in many Latin American countries. In this recipe, the crispy potato croquettes have a savory, sweet, and spicy eggplant filling that’s surrounded by creamy mashed potatoes. They’re then paired with a creamy and irresistible avocado sauce for dipping. These are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, but it’s also worth making mashed potatoes just to experience this flavorful appetizer.
Are these not the best party appetizers you’ve ever seen? Tell us in the comments!
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