Greek Style Tomato Fritters

Instructions for Making Greek-Style Tomato Fritters

1. Prepare the Tomatoes and Vegetables

Start by finely chopping the tomatoes and placing them in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to drain excess liquid. This will help the fritters hold together better during frying and prevent them from becoming too soggy. Let the tomatoes sit for about 10-15 minutes to release as much liquid as possible.

While the tomatoes are draining, finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley. If you’re using fresh oregano, chop that as well. Set aside.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the drained tomatoes, onion, parsley, oregano, and feta cheese (if using). Add the flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The flour and breadcrumbs will help bind everything together, giving the fritters a light texture. Stir in the beaten egg, which will help hold the mixture together.

The mixture should be thick but not too dry. If it feels too loose or wet, you can add a little more flour until it holds its shape when spooned.

3. Form the Fritters

With your hands or two spoons, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties or fritters. Depending on your preference, you can make them small and bite-sized or slightly larger for a heartier fritter. Dust the fritters lightly with a little extra flour to ensure they hold their shape during frying.

4. Fry the Fritters

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan generously. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully add the fritters to the pan. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the fritters for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the pan and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the fritters are crispy and golden, serve them immediately with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or oregano, and serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These fritters are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in a hot pan or oven to maintain their crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Greek-Style Tomato Fritters

• Drain the Tomatoes Well: Draining the tomatoes properly is crucial to prevent the fritters from becoming soggy. The more liquid you can remove, the better the fritters will hold their shape while frying.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and parsley give the fritters a vibrant Mediterranean flavor, but if you don’t have fresh herbs, dried oregano works as a substitute.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the fritter mixture, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even a small handful of spinach. Just be sure to chop them finely and remove any excess moisture.
• Feta for Flavor: While optional, adding crumbled feta gives the fritters a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the feta or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
• Make Them in Advance: You can prepare the fritter mixture in advance, shape the fritters, and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying. This will help them hold together better during cooking.

Why You’ll Love Greek-Style Tomato Fritters

• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of crispy exteriors and juicy tomatoes, herbs, and optional feta creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have these Mediterranean fritters ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: These fritters can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They’re perfect for a light summer meal or as part of a meze platter alongside hummus, olives, and pita.
• Vibrant and Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, these fritters are a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer. They’re light, nutritious, and full of antioxidants.

Final Thoughts

Greek-Style Tomato Fritters are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy fresh tomatoes in a unique, crispy form. These fritters bring a taste of Greece to your table, bursting with savory flavors and the vibrant, aromatic essence of the Mediterranean. Whether served with a dollop of tzatziki or enjoyed with a simple squeeze of lemon, these fritters are sure to be a hit at any meal.

With their easy preparation, light texture, and customizable flavors, Domatokeftedes make the perfect dish to enjoy any time you want something flavorful, healthy, and quick. So, gather your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy a crispy bite of Greece!