If you're a fan of Lithuanian cuisine, you'll love these Buckwheat Fritters, which Lithuanians simply call Lithuanian buckwheat pancakes. They have a great texture and are a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without any meat. Perfectly crispy on the edges and tender inside, these fritters are delicious served warm with sour cream, farmer's cheese dip or a savory Bacon and Onion Sauce.
Jump to:
Buckwheat: More Versatile Than You Think
Buckwheat is a staple in Lithuanian cuisine (and in Eastern Europe), cherished for its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits. Beyond the beloved Buckwheat Fritters, this versatile grain can be used in a variety of dishes.
As a side dish, buckwheat pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or meats, adding a wholesome touch to any meal. It's also a great base for salads, providing a satisfying chew and earthy taste that complements fresh greens and tangy dressings. We most often enjoy Buckwheat as a side dish!
For heartier fare, try our Buckwheat Casserole With Farmer's Cheese, a comforting meatless dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients and Substitutes
Here are a handful of basic ingredients you'll need:
- buckwheat: use roasted buckwheat groats, also known as Kasza.
- butter: or oil for sauteeing the vegetables.
- brown onion: can be replaced with shallots or spring onions.
- carrot: peeled and finely grated.
- garlic cloves: minced.
- eggs: we used 2 large eggs in this recipe. It acts as a binding agent, so if your batter looks too dry, add an extra egg.
- all-purpose flour: also known as plain flour.
- all-purpose seasoning: we used Vegeta.
- sea salt and black pepper.
- neutral oil for frying: we used vegetable oil (canola oil).
Find the ingredient quantities and full method in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Variations
Make Buckwheat Fritters Gluten-Free. Substitute white flour with buckwheat flour!
Add Cheese. Crumble in some feta or farmer's cheese.
Flavor Further With Spices and Herbs. Experiment with some smoked paprika, cumin or various herbs, like fresh coriander or parsley.
Add Other Vegetables. Instead of grated carrots, use grated zucchini. You do not need to saute the zucchini, but make sure to squeeze as much moisture out of it as possible.
Looking for a soft and fluffy fritters? Try Lithuanian Zucchini Fritters with Farmer's Cheese next time!
Step-By-Step Method
1. Place the buckwheat in a large pan. Add a teaspoon of salt and pour boiling water over. Cover with a lid and leave the buckwheat to soak for 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. Melt the butter in a frying pan, add the onion, carrot and garlic and saute for 7-8 minutes on low heat until softened.
3. Add the soaked buckwheat and sauteed vegetables to a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, eggs and flour and mix well to combine.
4. Heat a large frying pan with a little oil. Use wet hands to shape patties (or use a large spoon) and add them to hot oil. Fry buckwheat patties for 3-4 minutes on each side over medium heat until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
What To Serve Buckwheat Fritters With?
Traditionally, Lithuanian Buckwheat Fritters are served as a main dish and paired with a dollop of sour cream or Bacon and Onion Sauce. Alternatively, make a Lithuanian Cottage Cheese Sauce or Lithuanian Farmer's Cheese Dip.
To make a complete meal, add a side salad (we love Lithuanian Garden Salad or Carrot Salad With Sunflower Seeds) or serve these on a bed of arugula.
However, buckwheat fritters make a wonderful side dish for various meat and poultry dishes. What is more, they can be used instead of potato rosti and topped with a poached egg for breakfast!
Recipe FAQs
To store leftover Buckwheat Fritters, let them cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Buckwheat is considered by many to be a nutritious choice for a healthier life, thanks to its high fiber content and powerful antioxidants that support heart health. While "healthy" is subjective, incorporating buckwheat into your diet can contribute to overall well-being.
More Lithuanian Recipes
Make everyday cooking fun with these Lithuanian dinner recipes:
Lithuanian Buckwheat Fritters
Ingredients
- ¾ cups (100g) buckwheat groats (Kasza)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 brown onion very finely chopped
- 1 carrot finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 eggs large
- ½ cup (70g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- Place the buckwheat in a large pan. Add a teaspoon of salt and pour boiling water over. Cover with a lid and leave the buckwheat to soak for 30 minutes, or until tender.
- Melt the butter in a frying pan, add the onion, carrot and garlic and saute for 7-8 minutes until softened.
- Add the soaked buckwheat and sauted vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the seasoning, eggs and flour and mix well to combine.
- Heat a large frying pan with a little oil. Using wet hands to shape patties (or use a large spoon) and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and crispy on the edges. Serve warm with sour cream or Bacon and Onion Sauce.
Leave a Reply