Courgette recipes are a summer staple, and Ben Tish’s fritters and slow-cooked dishes showcase their incredible versatility. Whether you're grating them for crispy fritters or simmering them low and slow, courgettes transform into delicious meals that highlight early-season produce. These recipes are perfect for home cooks looking to elevate their vegetable game.
Why Courgettes Deserve More Attention
Courgettes are often overlooked in the UK, despite the marvellous varieties grown locally. They can be used raw in salads, charred on the barbecue, or baked into moist cakes. Their mild flavor absorbs herbs, cheeses, and spices beautifully, making them a blank canvas for creativity. Ben Tish’s approach emphasizes both simplicity and depth, from quick fritters to slow-cooked preparations.
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Ben Tish’s Courgette Fritters with Brown-Butter Creme Fraiche
These fritters are light, crispy, and packed with flavor. The key is salting the grated courgettes to remove excess moisture, ensuring a perfect texture. Pair them with a nutty brown-butter creme fraiche for a restaurant-quality starter or light lunch.
Ingredients for Fritters
- 3 medium courgettes (about 600g), grated
- Sea salt and black pepper
- 120g crumbly cow or sheep’s cheese
- 2 spring onions, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 handful mixed herbs (dill, mint, parsley)
- 2 eggs
- 120g plain flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Olive oil for frying
Brown-Butter Creme Fraiche
- 60g butter
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 150g creme fraiche
Step-by-Step Method
First, salt the grated courgettes and let them sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the liquid, then mix with cheese, spring onions, garlic, lemon zest, herbs, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, flour, and baking powder into a thick batter. Fold into the courgette mixture.
For the dip, melt butter until nutty, stir in lemon juice, and cool. Whisk into creme fraiche and season. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry spoonfuls of batter until golden on both sides. Serve hot with the dip.
Comparison: Fritters vs. Slow-Cooked Courgettes
| Method | Texture | Flavor Profile | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fritters | Crispy outside, tender inside | Herbaceous, cheesy, bright | Quick appetizers or snacks |
| Slow-Cooked | Soft, melt-in-mouth | Sweet, savory, caramelized | Hearty mains or sides |
Both methods highlight the courgette’s natural sweetness. Fritters offer a satisfying crunch, while slow-cooking deepens the flavor, making it a great base for stews or pasta sauces.
Key Takeaways for Perfect Courgette Dishes
- Always salt grated courgettes to remove water for crispier results.
- Use fresh herbs like dill and mint for a vibrant taste.
- Brown butter adds a nutty richness that complements mild vegetables.
- Experiment with different cheeses—feta or halloumi work well.
- Slow-cook courgettes with garlic and tomatoes for a simple sauce.
FAQ
Can I use frozen courgettes for fritters?
Frozen courgettes contain more water, so thaw and squeeze them thoroughly before using. Fresh courgettes yield the best texture for fritters.
What cheese works best in courgette fritters?
Crumbly cow or sheep’s cheese, like feta or ricotta salata, adds a salty tang. For a milder flavor, try mozzarella or cheddar.
Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend. Add a pinch of xanthan gum to maintain structure.
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