Zucchini Pancakes Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Romania

Zucchini Pancakes

Zucchini Pancakes Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Romania
Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 | Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Zucchini Pancakes
Zucchini Pancakes

Zucchini pancakes are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. These savory pancakes are made with grated zucchini, eggs, flour, and seasonings, then fried until crispy and golden brown. They are a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini from your garden or local farmers market.

History

Zucchini pancakes have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. In Eastern Europe, they are known as "placki z cukinii" in Poland and "кабачковые оладьи" in Russia. These pancakes are often served as a side dish or appetizer, and can be enjoyed with sour cream, yogurt, or a dollop of applesauce.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Peel the zucchini and grate it. Wash the grated zucchini and boil it.
  2. Transfer the boiled zucchini to a colander and let it drain for half an hour.
  3. Using a wooden chopper, chop the drained zucchini.
  4. In a bowl, combine the chopped zucchini with the lightly fried onion, egg, flour, soaked and squeezed bread, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill.
  5. Take tablespoons of the mixture and fry them in hot lard on both sides.
  6. Place the fried pancakes on a plate and serve them with green lettuce or tomato slices arranged around them.

Variations

  • Add grated cheese to the pancake mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Mix in cooked bacon or ham for a savory and satisfying option.
  • Try adding spices like paprika, cumin, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the grated zucchini well before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help prevent the pancakes from becoming soggy.

- You can add other vegetables or herbs to the pancake mixture, such as grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

- For a healthier option, you can bake the pancakes in the oven instead of frying them in lard. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini pancakes can be served with a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or a side of applesauce. They also pair well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the pancakes in lard gives them a crispy and golden brown exterior, while baking them in the oven is a healthier option. Experiment with different cooking techniques to find your preferred method.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the lard with vegetable oil or butter for frying the pancakes.

- Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

- Replace the dill with other herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pancake mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply fry the pancakes when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the zucchini pancakes on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Serve them with a side of sour cream or yogurt for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Zucchini pancakes pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. They also go nicely with a light beer or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover zucchini pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of zucchini pancakes contains approximately 100 calories. This makes them a relatively low-calorie option for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of zucchini pancakes contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are important for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of zucchini pancakes contains approximately 5 grams of fat. Fat is essential for the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals, as well as for providing energy and supporting cell growth.

Proteins

Each serving of zucchini pancakes contains approximately 3 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues, as well as for supporting immune function and hormone production.

Vitamins and minerals

Zucchini is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and immune function.

Alergens

Zucchini pancakes may contain allergens such as eggs and wheat flour. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients list carefully before consuming.

Summary

Zucchini pancakes are a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, and are a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Zucchini pancakes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients and seasonings. Try this recipe for a tasty and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Zucchini Pancakes. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through the farmer's market, admiring the vibrant array of fresh produce on display. As I made my way past the stalls, a friendly vendor caught my eye and waved me over.

"Would you like to try a sample of our zucchini pancakes?" she asked, holding out a plate piled high with golden-brown pancakes topped with a dollop of sour cream.

I had never heard of zucchini pancakes before, but I was always eager to try new dishes. I took a bite and was immediately hooked. The pancakes were light and fluffy, with a subtle hint of sweetness from the zucchini. The vendor noticed my delight and offered to share her recipe with me.

"Would you like to know how to make them at home?" she asked, a twinkle in her eye.

I eagerly accepted her offer, and she proceeded to jot down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap of paper. I thanked her profusely and made my way home, eager to try my hand at making zucchini pancakes for myself.

As I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions, I couldn't help but think back on all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one held a special place in my heart, a memory of where I had learned it and who had shared it with me. From my own mother's kitchen to cooking classes with friends, I had amassed a treasure trove of recipes that I cherished dearly.

The zucchini pancakes turned out even better than I had hoped, and I couldn't wait to share them with my family. As they gathered around the table to sample my latest creation, their eyes lit up with delight. My husband proclaimed them the best pancakes he had ever tasted, and my grandchildren eagerly asked for seconds.

From that day on, zucchini pancakes became a staple in our household. They were perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and I loved experimenting with different toppings and variations. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of herbs for a savory twist, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Each batch was a new adventure, a chance to put my own spin on a classic recipe.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, learning new techniques and flavors along the way. I took cooking classes, attended culinary workshops, and even traveled to different countries to explore their traditional dishes. Everywhere I went, I sought out new recipes and inspiration, eager to expand my culinary repertoire.

But no matter how many recipes I collected, the zucchini pancakes always held a special place in my heart. They reminded me of that fateful day at the farmer's market, of the friendly vendor who had shared her recipe with me. I often wondered where she had learned to make zucchini pancakes, and who had passed the recipe down to her.

I like to think that the recipe for zucchini pancakes has a long and storied history, passed down through generations of home cooks and food lovers. Perhaps it originated in a small village in Italy, or a bustling market in Greece. Maybe it was a closely guarded secret of a renowned chef, or a humble family recipe handed down from mother to daughter.

Wherever it came from, I am grateful for the chance encounter that brought it into my life. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, a symbol of love and connection that transcends time and space. And as I continue to add new recipes to my collection, I know that the zucchini pancakes will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and warmth that good food can bring.

Categories

| Dill Recipes | Lettuce Recipes | Pancake Recipes | Romanian Recipes | Romanian Vegetarian | Zucchini Recipes |

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