Vegetable patties are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal that’s full of flavor and texture. These patties, made with zucchini, potatoes, and carrots, are complemented by the richness of cheese and the freshness of spring onions. They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course when paired with your favorite sides. Let’s explore how to make these mouthwatering vegetable patties step by step.
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 2 potatoes, grated and drained
- 1 carrot, grated
- 3.5 oz (100 g) cheese (Suluguni or your preferred mild cheese)
- Spring onion (to taste), chopped
- 2 eggs
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika powder
- 2 teaspoons dried garlic
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Step 1: Grate the Zucchini
Begin by grating one zucchini. This vegetable will be the primary base of our delicious vegetable patties. The zucchini adds moisture and a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Step 2: Drain the Excess Water
Place the grated zucchini in a large bowl and sprinkle some salt over it. Let it rest for 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps draw out excess water from the zucchini, which can make the patties too soft or soggy. After resting, squeeze the grated zucchini using a kitchen towel or your hands to remove as much moisture as possible.
Step 3: Prepare Potatoes and Carrot
While the zucchini is resting, grate two potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a separate bowl and sprinkle a little salt over them as well. Allow them to sit for a few minutes before squeezing out the excess water. This will help the patties hold their shape better. Next, grate a carrot and add it to the same bowl with the zucchini and potatoes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Spring Onion
Grate 100 grams of Suluguni cheese (or any mild cheese of your choice) and chop the spring onion to taste. Add both of these ingredients to the bowl with the grated vegetables. The cheese brings a creamy richness, while the spring onion adds a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
Step 5: Mix in Eggs, Garlic, Salt, and Pepper
Crack two eggs into the bowl. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper according to your taste. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. The eggs help to bind the mixture, while the garlic infuses the patties with a wonderful aroma.
Step 6: Incorporate Semolina and Let It Rest
Add two tablespoons of semolina to the mixture and stir well. The semolina adds texture and helps absorb any remaining moisture, giving the patties a slightly crispy bite. Cover the bowl with cling film and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the semolina to work its magic in binding the ingredients.
Step 7: Form and Fry the Patties
After the mixture has rested, take small portions of the vegetable mixture and shape them into small patties or balls, about the size of a walnut. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches, cooking them for about 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid the patties absorbing too much oil.
Step 8: Create the Flavorful Sauce
While the patties are frying, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of sour cream, two tablespoons of mayonnaise, two teaspoons of smoked paprika powder, and two teaspoons of dried garlic. Mix until smooth and creamy. This sauce is smoky, tangy, and perfectly complements the crispy vegetable patties.
Step 9: Oven Finish for a Perfect Texture
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). Once all the patties are fried, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to ensure they are cooked through and to give them a firmer texture. This oven finish step helps remove any excess oil and locks in all the flavors, making the patties even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vegetable patties hot, accompanied by the flavorful sauce. They make an excellent appetizer, side dish, or light main course. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your choice of grain like quinoa or rice. They are also perfect for sandwiches or wraps for a quick and tasty lunch.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Patties
- Drain the Vegetables Well: Removing as much water as possible from the grated vegetables is key to achieving the perfect texture for your patties.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before frying and adjust the salt, pepper, or garlic according to your preference.
- Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro can enhance the flavor and add a burst of freshness to your patties.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 3g
- Servings: 4
These vegetable patties are not just healthy but also incredibly tasty, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Enjoy this delightful dish that proves vegetables can be just as delicious, if not more so, than their meaty counterparts!
