Looking for a creative and wholesome way to use up leftover grains? These Savory Millet Fritters are your answer! We’re taking humble cooked millet and transforming it into golden, crispy cakes bursting with Mediterranean flavor. With savory spinach, salty feta, aromatic sage, and a surprising pop of sweetness from golden raisins, each bite is a delightful journey. They’re perfect as a light lunch, a satisfying appetizer, or a unique side dish. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
• 2 cups / 370g cooked millet
• 1 ½ cups / 225g medium onion, chopped
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons / 6g minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh sage, or ½ teaspoon dried sage
• ½ teaspoon / 3g kosher salt
• 2 cups / 60g finely chopped fresh spinach
• ½ cup / 60g breadcrumbs, plus more as needed
• ⅓ cup / 50g crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup / 75g golden raisins
• 2 tablespoons / 30ml olive oil, for frying
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked millet, chopped onion, beaten eggs, minced garlic, sage, and salt. Mix well.
2. Stir in the chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, and golden raisins until just combined. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
3. Test the mixture by pinching a small amount; it should hold its shape. If it feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time. Form the mixture into 12 compact patties, using about ¼ cup for each.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place half of the fritters in the pan, ensuring they don’t touch. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp.
5. Gently flip the fritters and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, or until the second side is also beautifully browned. Transfer to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining fritters.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition Information
• Calories: 253
• Protein: 8 g
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 106 mg
• Sodium: 317 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 10 g
Pro Tips
• For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with your favorite certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Swap the millet for an equal amount of cooked quinoa, farro, or even brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Serve these fritters warm with a spicy arrabbiata sauce, a cool dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki, or a briny olive tapenade.
• You can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined tray for up to 24 hours. Cook them straight from the fridge when you’re ready to eat.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these millet fritters vegan
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegan. Replace the 3 large eggs with a vegan binder like three ‘flax eggs’ (3 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 9 tbsp water, rested for 5 minutes). You will also need to substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative or omit it entirely.
Q: How do I make these fritters gluten-free
A: This recipe is easily made gluten-free. Millet is a naturally gluten-free grain. Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with an equal amount of certified gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure the entire dish is safe for a gluten-free diet.
Q: Are these millet fritters a good source of protein
A: With 8 grams of protein per serving, these fritters are a good vegetarian protein source. The protein comes from a combination of the millet itself, the eggs, and the feta cheese, making them a satisfying and nutritious option for a light meal or appetizer.
Q: What is the best way to store and reheat leftover fritters
A: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, reheat them in an air fryer, a toaster oven, or a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through and crispy again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soft.
