Crispy Anti-Inflammatory Cabbage Fritters (Better Than Meat!)
Golden, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these savory cabbage fritters are packed with flavor and powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients. This easy plant-based recipe is budget-friendly, high in fiber, and perfect for anyone exploring healthy comfort food, clean eating, or vegetarian meal prep.
Paired with a cooling garlic yogurt herb dip, this dish makes an irresistible appetizer, snack, or light dinner.
🌿 Why Cabbage is a Superfood
Cabbage is rich in:
-
Vitamin C (immune support & anti-inflammatory benefits)
-
Vitamin K (bone and heart health)
-
Antioxidants & polyphenols
-
Gut-friendly fiber
Combined with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, this recipe becomes a powerful anti-inflammatory meal option ideal for wellness-focused diets.
📝 Ingredients
For the Cabbage Fritters:
-
4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
-
2 large eggs
-
½ cup all-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 green onions, finely chopped
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill
-
½ tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory boost)
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
¾ tsp sea salt
-
½ tsp smoked paprika
-
2–3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
🥣 For the Anti-Inflammatory Yogurt Dip:
-
1 cup Greek yogurt
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 clove garlic, grated
-
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
-
½ tsp dried mint
-
Pinch chili flakes
-
Salt to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
-
Finely shred cabbage.
-
Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit 10 minutes.
-
Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
-
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, eggs, flour, cheese, garlic, herbs, and spices.
-
Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Cook
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
-
Scoop 2 tablespoons per fritter and flatten slightly.
-
Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
-
Transfer to paper towel.
Step 4: Make the Dip
-
Mix all dip ingredients in a bowl.
-
Chill for 10 minutes before serving.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
These crispy cabbage patties pair beautifully with:
-
Fresh cucumber & tomato salad
-
Avocado slices
-
Whole grain toast
-
Poached eggs for brunch
-
As a vegetarian burger alternative
-
In wraps with hummus and greens
Perfect for:
-
Healthy meal prep
-
Weight loss meals
-
Mediterranean diet recipes
-
Budget-friendly family dinners
🔄 Delicious Variations
🧀 Cheesy Upgrade
Add mozzarella for extra melt and protein.
🌱 Vegan Version
Replace eggs with flax eggs and use chickpea flour.
🌶 Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
🥕 Add More Veggies
Mix in shredded carrots or zucchini.
🥩 High-Protein Boost
Serve with grilled tofu or lentil salad.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 3 Fritters)
-
Calories: 210
-
Protein: 8g
-
Carbohydrates: 18g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Vitamin C: 60% DV
-
Vitamin K: 85% DV
Low-carb option available by substituting almond flour.
❓ Related Questions
Is cabbage anti-inflammatory?
Yes. Cabbage contains antioxidants and compounds that help reduce inflammation markers in the body.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I freeze cabbage fritters?
Absolutely. Freeze cooked fritters up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Are these good for weight loss?
Yes. They’re high in fiber, nutrient-dense, and lower in calories than meat-based patties.
What oil is best for anti-inflammatory cooking?
Extra virgin olive oil is ideal due to its healthy monounsaturated fats.
💡 Pro Tips for Extra Crispiness
-
Remove as much moisture from cabbage as possible.
-
Don’t overcrowd the pan.
-
Use medium heat to prevent burning.
-
Let batter rest 5 minutes before cooking.
🏆 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a healthy vegetarian comfort food recipe that’s affordable, satisfying, and packed with anti-inflammatory benefits, these crispy cabbage fritters are a must-try.

