Kabak mücver: Turkish zucchini fritters that your guests will fight over

If there's one appetizer that always disappears before you can even blink, it's kabak mücver. Golden on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of herbs and spice. Add a garlicky yogurt dip on the side and you've got a dish that's bound to steal to show at your next family / friend gathering!

So, what it "Kabak mücver" exactly?

It's pronounced 'moo-jvair' and it's a beloved Turkish classic. It's a staple in Turkish taverns (meyhanes) and often found on meze platters, alongside other small plates. While zucchini is the traditional star in this recipe, people play around with variations using grated carrots or even potatoes. (Something I'll definitely will be trying soon too!)

This recipe is quick, simple and super satisfying. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 egg

• 1 large zucchini

• ½ cup flour

• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (to taste)

• 2 additional tablespoons of flour (added later)

• Oil for frying

  
  

Instructions

1. Start the base: In a mixing bowl, crack in one egg and add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in ½ cup of flour and mix until smooth.

2. Add herbs: Finely chop a bunch of parsley and mix it into the batter.

3. Grate the zucchini: Grab a large zucchini, grate it, and squeeze out any excess moisture using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Add the zucchini to your bowl along with two more tablespoons of flour. Mix well until everything is combined.

4. Fry to perfection: Heat a generous amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, drop in spoonfuls of the mixture (about one tablespoon each) & gently flatten them with the back of your spoon. Let them fry until golden and crispy on both sides, adding more oil as needed.

5. Serve and enjoy: Plate up your mücver & serve warm with a garlicky yogurt dip. Trust me, the combo is chef’s kiss.

These zucchini fritters are the perfect balance of crispy and tender, and they’re incredibly versatile!! Great as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch. They also happen to be vegetarian and can be made dairy-free if you skip the yogurt dip (but really, don’t skip the dip).

Save this recipe for your next dinner party or solo kitchen adventure & let me know if you try any other fillings. I’m always on the hunt for the next twist on a classic!