If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, quick, and absolutely delicious meal, these meat fritters with potatoes will be your new go-to recipe! These savory patties are perfect for any meal and are made from simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that delivers rich flavor with every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) ground beef: The base of the fritters, offering a rich, hearty flavor.
• 3 medium potatoes, grated: Adds texture and bulk to the patties, making them soft and moist inside.
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: This ingredient adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture together.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory flavor that complements the beef and potatoes.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: For an extra layer of flavor and depth.
• 30 g (1 oz) butter, melted: Adds a rich, buttery taste to the mixture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the fritters.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle hint of spice and color.
• Black pepper, to taste: A pinch or two, depending on how much heat you like.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of freshness and color.
• Olive oil: For frying the patties until golden and crispy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Meat Mixture

1. Grate the Potatoes:
   • Start by peeling and grating 3 medium potatoes. The grated potatoes will add moisture and a soft texture to the patties.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic:
   • Finely chop 1 onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. This will give the fritters a deep, savory flavor.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and 500 g of ground beef.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, 30 g of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper.
   • Toss in some freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 2: Form the Patties

1. Shape the Fritters:
   • Take small handfuls of the meat and potato mixture and shape them into round or oval patties. You can make them as large or small as you like, but aim for a size that fits comfortably in your hand.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties so they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

1. Fry the Fritters:
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Cook them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
   • Fry each patty for 4-5 minutes per side or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside. The potatoes should give the fritters a nice crispiness, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful.
2. Remove and Drain:
   • After frying, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 8 patties):

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

Cooking Tips:

• Grating the Potatoes: Grate the potatoes finely for a softer texture. If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture, use a larger grater.
• Draining Excess Moisture: After grating the potatoes, squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels. This helps the patties hold together better while frying.
• Frying Tip: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the patties. You can test it by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the patties in batches if needed. Overcrowding will reduce the oil’s temperature, making it harder to achieve a crispy crust.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or the microwave before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and fry as usual.
• Reheating: For crispy reheated patties, heat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These meat fritters with potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Dish: Serve them with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• In Sandwiches: Stuff the patties into buns or wraps, add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce, and enjoy a delicious homemade burger.
• With Dips: Serve with sour cream, ketchup, or garlic aioli for extra flavor.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork are great alternatives. Keep in mind that leaner meats might need a bit more oil or moisture to avoid drying out.

Q: Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
A: Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake the patties at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
A: Ensure you squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes and don’t skip the mayonnaise, which helps bind the ingredients together. Chilling the mixture in the fridge for about 20 minutes before frying can also help them hold their shape.

Q: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply shape the patties and fry them fresh.

Conclusion

These delicious meat fritters are not only affordable but also incredibly easy to make. With a simple list of ingredients, they come together quickly, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a comforting meal. The combination of ground beef, grated potatoes, and flavorful seasonings creates a juicy, crispy, and savory patty that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them with sides or on their own, these patties are guaranteed to disappear in no time!

Bon Appetit!