Why You’ll Love Vegan Broccoli Chickpea Fritters Recipe
These fritters are easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients and a single bowl. The chickpeas add heartiness and protein, while the broccoli brings freshness and texture. They are naturally egg-free, full of savory flavor from nutritional yeast and garlic, and they cook up beautifully in a skillet. This recipe is also flexible enough to serve as a snack, side dish, or meatless main course.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 10–12 oz package steamable broccoli florets
1 15 oz can chickpeas
2 tbsp aquafaba (liquid from the chickpeas)
3 tbsp nutritional yeast
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
Steam the broccoli florets and let them cool until they are comfortable to handle. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Drain the chickpeas, reserving 2 tablespoons of aquafaba from the can. Rinse the chickpeas well, then add them along with the aquafaba to the bowl.
Mash the broccoli and chickpeas together using a potato masher or fork until the mixture is mostly combined but still has some texture.
Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, nutritional yeast, and panko breadcrumbs. Stir everything well until the mixture holds together.
Heat a little oil in a skillet or griddle over medium heat until shimmering. Shape the mixture into 6 to 7 large fritters or 8 to 10 smaller ones.
Place the fritters in the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until browned and heated through.
Serve warm with vegan cheese, ketchup, or any sauce you enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep and cook time is 1 hour 10 minutes total.
Variations
You can change up these fritters in a few easy ways. Add finely chopped onion or green onion for extra flavor. Swap the garlic for garlic powder if needed. Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little heat. For a different texture, use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko. You can also serve the fritters with dairy-free ranch, tahini sauce, spicy mayo, or marinara for a new twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through and crisp again on the outside. You can also reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave them, though they may lose some crispness.
FAQs
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before shaping and cooking.
Can I freeze broccoli chickpea fritters?
Yes, cooked fritters freeze well. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of aquafaba?
You can try a small amount of plant milk or a flax egg, but aquafaba works especially well for binding in this recipe.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, you can bake them on a lined baking sheet at 400°F until golden, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Why are my fritters falling apart?
They may need a bit more mashing or an extra spoonful of breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of steamable packaged broccoli?
Yes, fresh broccoli works well. Just steam it until tender before mashing.
Are these fritters gluten-free?
Not as written, because panko breadcrumbs usually contain gluten. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.
What sauce goes best with these fritters?
Ketchup, vegan ranch, tahini sauce, garlic aioli, and marinara all pair nicely with the savory flavor of the fritters.
Can I make smaller fritters for appetizers?
Yes, shaping them into smaller patties works great for party platters or snacks. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
How do I keep the fritters crispy?
Cook them in a properly heated pan, avoid overcrowding, and reheat them in a skillet or oven instead of the microwave when possible.
Conclusion
Vegan broccoli chickpea fritters are a simple, flavorful way to turn basic ingredients into a satisfying meal or snack. With their crispy edges, tender center, and flexible serving options, they are a great recipe to keep on repeat for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
