Name: Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tbsp ground flax (or chia) seeds; 45 ml / 3 tbsp water (for flax egg); 30 ml / 2 tbsp lemon juice; Approx. 100 ml / 7 tbsp water (added to batter); Oil for frying; Vegan crème fraiche or cashew cream, to serve; 280 g / 2 cups defrosted petit pois or green peas, divided; 50 g / 1¾ oz (4 leaves) kale leaves, de-cored; Large handful of coriander; 2 small spring onions / scallions, chopped roughly; 1 large garlic clove, peeled; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tsp shiro / white miso paste; ½ tsp fine sea salt; A good grind of black pepper; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp baking soda; Approx. 70 g / ½ cup rice flour

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 4 reviews

If you’ve been on the lookout for a vibrant, nourishing snack or light meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant greens, this Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These fritters are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and herby on the inside, thanks to the magical combination of tender kale leaves and sweet green peas. Every bite delivers a lovely punch of texture and freshness, making them ideal for any time you crave something wholesome yet exciting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family, this recipe is straightforward, fun, and guaranteed to impress with its bright taste and appealing color.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows fresh ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. On the right side, there are five large dark green kale leaves with a bumpy texture, stacked slightly overlapping. To the left of the kale, there are three green spring onions with white bases and long green tops. Further left, there is a bunch of bright green leafy cilantro with delicate, jagged leaves. On the bottom left, a white bowl is filled with bright green peas, each pea round and shiny, filling the bowl completely. At the bottom center, just below the cilantro, is a whole, round lemon with a bright yellow textured skin. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing texture, moisture, and flavor, bringing the kale and peas to center stage while ensuring every fritter is light, fluffy, and utterly delicious.

Ground flax seeds (1 tbsp): Acts as a vegan binder when mixed with water, giving the fritters structure without eggs.

Defrosted petit pois or green peas (280 g / 2 cups): Provides a naturally sweet base and vibrant color for freshness.
Kale leaves (50 g / 4 leaves, de-cored): Adds a wonderful depth of green color and a slightly earthy flavor that complements the peas.
Fresh coriander (large handful): Brings an herbaceous note that brightens the overall flavor to make it pop.

Spring onions/scallions (2 small, chopped roughly): Offers a mild onion kick, giving the fritters a subtle sharpness.
Garlic clove (1 large, peeled): Delivers a savory warmth that rounds out the herbs nicely.
Lemon zest and juice (1 lemon): Injects a fresh citrus zing to lift the flavors and add brightness.

Shiro/white miso paste (2 tsp): Adds a savory umami boost that deepens the taste profile.
Sea salt (½ tsp) and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to enhance every ingredient’s natural goodness.
Baking powder (1 tsp) and baking soda (¼ tsp): Help make the fritters light and airy.

Rice flour (approx. 70 g / ½ cup): A gluten-free option that provides a crisp coating and light texture.
Oil for frying: Your choice – use vegetable, sunflower, or any neutral frying oil for a perfect, crisp finish.
Vegan crème fraiche or cashew cream (for serving): Adds a creamy tang to complement the crispy fritters.

How to Make Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flax “Egg”

Start by mixing your ground flax seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and set it aside. This little flax egg will thicken up and act as a fantastic binder, keeping the fritters together without any eggs involved. It’s an essential vegan hack that ensures your fritters are moist but sturdy enough to hold shape.

Step 2: Process the Greens and Aromatics

In a food processor, combine half of your peas, all the kale, coriander, spring onions, garlic, lemon zest and juice, miso paste, salt, and pepper. Blitz it until everything is uniformly minced but still has some texture — you want it smooth but not mushy. This blend is where all those fresh herbal and citrus notes really start to shine.

Step 3: Combine the Batter

Transfer your green mixture into a mixing bowl. Stir in the thickened flax egg, the remaining peas, rice flour, baking powder, baking soda, and about 7 tablespoons of water. Give it a good mix, then pop the batter in the fridge for about an hour. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to fry and ensuring crisp fritters.

Step 4: Adjust and Prepare to Fry

After chilling, check your batter’s consistency — it should resemble a very thick pancake batter. If it feels too runny, add a bit more rice flour; if too thick, mix in a tablespoon or two of water. Meanwhile, heat about half an inch of oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat, getting ready to create those golden edges we love.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden and Crispy

Spoon heaping dollops of batter into the hot oil, flattening each slightly with the back of the spoon. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the underside has formed a firm crust. Carefully flip and fry for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remember, don’t overcrowd the pan – keeping the oil hot will help your fritters crisp up beautifully rather than absorbing excess oil.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked golden and crisp, transfer fritters to a plate lined with kitchen towels. This little step soaks up extra oil, keeping your fritters delightfully crunchy. Serve them hot with a dollop of vegan crème fraiche or cashew cream for a luscious finish.

How to Serve Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe

A tall stack of six green pea fritters with a crispy, slightly browned texture on the outside and visible whole green peas inside each layer. On top of the stack sits a dollop of white cream with black pepper sprinkled over it and fresh green cilantro leaves placed on the cream. The fritters are on a white plate with delicate blue patterns. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped fresh coriander or a sprinkle of extra lemon zest brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. For those who enjoy a little heat, a drizzle of chili oil or a side of spicy chutney elevates the experience with a tantalizing kick.

Side Dishes

These fritters pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup for a more filling meal. Their fresh and herby character complements tangy, acidic, or creamy sides beautifully, making the meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your fritters into fun finger food by stacking them and layering with vegan cheese or sliced avocado in mini sliders. You can also scatter them over grain bowls or soups as crunchy toppings to add more texture and flavor complexity. The Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe adapts well, letting your creativity run free!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and enjoy them cold or reheated.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, these fritters freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months and are super convenient for quick meals later.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your kale and green pea fritters is in a hot oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for around 10 minutes. This method helps retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas straight from the bag?

It’s best to defrost the peas before using to avoid extra moisture in your batter, which can lead to soggy fritters. Simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature and drain any liquid.

What can I substitute if I don’t have miso paste?

If miso isn’t available, you can swap it with a teaspoon of soy sauce or tamari to maintain that umami flavor, but add it cautiously to avoid too much salt.

Are these fritters gluten-free?

Yes, since the recipe uses rice flour, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the crispiest results, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

The recipe is already nut-free if you avoid serving the fritters with cashew cream. Use a vegan crème fraiche or another safe dip instead to keep it nut-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way the vibrant kale and sweet peas come together in this Kale and Green Pea Fritters Recipe. Crispy on the outside and wonderfully green and fresh inside, they’re the kind of treat that feels comforting yet healthy. I genuinely hope you dive into making these fritters and enjoy every tasty, crunchy bite as much as I do. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be spinning up this recipe again and again!