Crispy Air Fryer Mücver (Turkish Zucchini Fritters)

Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters, or Mücver in Turkish, are a classic comfort food made with grated zucchini, fresh herbs, and a few pantry staples. They are easy to make and you get golden, crisp results with way less oil — and it’s ready in about 25 minutes.

These traditional Turkish zucchini fritters are often pan-fried and served warm or at room temperature as a snack, mezze, or vegetarian main. They are light, savory, and a great way to use up summer zucchini. This version is made in the air fryer for less mess and oil.

Why Make Mücver in the Air Fryer?

Traditional mücver is shallow-fried in oil, which works well, but can be messy. Air frying makes the process simpler, faster, and less greasy.

Benefits of Air Fryer Mücver:

• No splattering oil

• Less hands-on cooking

• Just as crispy as pan-fried

• Lighter and more convenient for busy days

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Zucchini – Use fresh, young zucchini as they contain less water and are more flavoursome than bigger ones.

• Herbs – I like using flat-leaf parsley, dill, and a bit of mint—both fresh and dried—but you can swap in whatever you’ve got on hand, like basil, chives, or even chervil. 

• Egg – It helps hold everything together and adds some richness.

• Flour – It brings that nice crisp outside while keeping the inside soft. If you need a gluten-free version, rice flour or cornflour works too.

• Spring onions – I use just the green part of spring onions, but any finely chopped onion will do.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Mücver (Turkish Zucchini Fritters)

Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to release water. Then squeeze it well using a clean cloth or paper towel.

In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini with egg, flour, fresh herbs, dried mint, spring onion, baking powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix well until it comes together — the mixture should hold shape when scooped but not be too wet.

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket or use parchment with holes. Drop a heaped spoonful of the mixture on parchment paper in single layer, giving space between them.

Brush the fritters with olive oil. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.

Expert Tips From the Chef

• Zucchini holds a lot of water, so if you cook it right after grating, the fritters can turn out soggy. To keep them crisp, it’s important to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Take your time with this step—it really makes a difference in the texture.

• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs or add chopped onions or garlic for extra flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in 2 or 3 batches if necessary.

• Use a light brush of oil for that golden crust.

Variations to Try

Gluten-Free Mücver

Swap all-purpose flour for chickpea or rice flour. Both work well and hold the fritters together nicely.

Vegan Version

Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water). If you want to use cheese, use dairy-free cheese.

Add-ins

Try adding grated carrot, cheese, mint, or even a dash of Aleppo pepper for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Mucver is best when served warm or at room temperature. Here are some ideas for what to serve with mucver:

With Yogurt or Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Serve mücver with plain yogurt or mix yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt for a creamy dip that balances the fritters perfectly. Try one of these delicious recipes such as Haydari (Turkish Yoghurt Dip), Onion Raita, or Cacik (Turkish Yoghurt With Cucumbers).

As a Light Lunch or Mezze

Pair with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, olives, and feta cheese for a light Mediterranean-style lunch or mezze spread.

In a Wrap or Pita

Tuck a few fritters into warm pita bread with lettuce, herbs, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce for a quick sandwich.

With Poached or Fried Eggs

Top with a poached or fried egg for a simple brunch plate.

On the Side of Grilled Dishes

Great next to grilled or air fried meats, fish, or even a simple rice pilaf.

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

Freeze between layers of parchment for up to 3 months. Reheat directly in the air fryer until warm and crispy.

Reheating:

• Air fryer: 3–5 minutes at 350°F

• Oven: 8–10 minutes at 375°F

• Avoid microwaving unless you’re okay with softer texture

Recipe FAQs