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Zucchini Fritters with Deep-Fried Capers

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  • ACTIVE:
  • TOTAL TIME:
  • SERVINGS: 6
  • •VEGETARIAN

The tangy caper and rich crème fraîche accompaniments balance these salty fritters nicely, but lemon wedges would make an easy alternative.

Plus: More Vegetable Recipes and Tips

  1. 1 medium zucchini (about 1/2 pound), coarsely grated
  2. Kosher salt
  3. 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
  4. 1 small onion, finely chopped
  5. 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  6. 2 teaspoons baking powder
  7. Freshly ground pepper
  8. 3 tablespoons milk
  9. 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  10. Vegetable oil, for frying
  11. 1/4 cup drained capers
  12. 1/3 cup crème fraîche
  1. In a colander set in the sink, toss the zucchini with 1 teaspoon of salt; let drain for 20 minutes. Squeeze the zucchini, a handful at a time, to remove as much liquid as possible.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet until shimmering. Add the onion and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper. Add the zucchini, onion, milk and egg and stir until smooth. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  4. In a medium skillet, heat 3/4 inch of vegetable oil until shimmering. Pat the capers dry with paper towels. Add them to the oil and fry until crisp, about 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the capers to paper towels to drain.
  5. Scoop scant tablespoonfuls of the fritter batter into the hot oil, without crowding, and fry until crisp and golden all over, about 2 minutes per side. Drain the fritters on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Top each fritter with a scant teaspoon of crème fraîche and a few fried capers and serve right away.