These cabbage cakes are a flavorful, crunchy treat, combining the freshness of cabbage and carrots with the richness of cheese and a subtle garlic kick. Baked to perfection and served with a creamy yogurt walnut dill sauce, this dish makes for a satisfying snack, appetizer, or light meal. They are perfect for those looking for a nutritious and tasty vegetable dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Cakes:
- 1 medium cabbage (600g), finely shredded
- 1/3 teaspoon salt (for cabbage)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/3 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup oat flakes (50g)
- 80g cheese (grated, use your favorite cheese)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Yogurt Walnut Dill Sauce:
- 3-4 tablespoons thick yogurt
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
- Fresh dill, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
Directions:
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Finely shred the cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1/3 teaspoon of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, squeeze out any excess moisture from the cabbage using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Grate the carrot and add it to the cabbage in the bowl.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the beaten eggs, black pepper, oat flakes, grated cheese, flour, olive oil, and minced garlic to the cabbage and carrot mixture.
- Mix everything well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Form the Cakes:
- Shape the mixture into small patties using your hands, making them about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a little olive oil in a large frying pan over medium to low heat.
- Add the patties and cover the pan. Cook for 5-8 minutes on each side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through.
- Bake (Optional for extra crispiness):
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the cooked patties on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until they are crispy and fully cooked.
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the thick yogurt, chopped walnuts, chopped dill, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well.
- Serve:
- Serve the cabbage cakes hot with the yogurt walnut dill sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cabbage cakes with a side of fresh, mixed greens or a tangy side salad.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete, protein-packed meal.
- Enjoy as a snack or appetizer at your next gathering.
Cooking Tips:
- To make the cakes extra crispy, you can bake them at the end for a few minutes.
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the cabbage to prevent the cakes from being too soggy.
- You can add a bit of grated carrot for extra flavor and texture in the cakes.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the cheese with a vegan option to make the dish dairy-free.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Fiber: The cabbage and oat flakes provide a good source of fiber, aiding digestion.
- Rich in Protein: Eggs and cheese contribute to the protein content, making the cakes more filling.
- Antioxidants: Garlic, walnuts, and fresh dill are loaded with antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Good Source of Healthy Fats: Walnuts offer heart-healthy fats that are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Dietary Information:
- Calories per serving: 200-250 kcal (depending on size and specific ingredients)
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and check that oats are certified gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but can easily be made vegan by substituting eggs with a plant-based egg replacer and cheese with a vegan alternative.
- Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt and cheese substitute for a dairy-free option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Sugar: 5g
Storage:
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze the cakes individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a container for longer storage (up to 3 months).
- Sauce Storage: Keep the yogurt walnut dill sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s packed with fresh vegetables, making it a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
- The recipe is highly customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
- It’s a healthy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of the day.
- The combination of savory cabbage cakes and the creamy walnut dill sauce is irresistible.
Conclusion:
These cabbage cakes are a delicious and healthy dish that combines the benefits of cabbage with the rich flavors of cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. Paired with the creamy yogurt walnut dill sauce, they offer a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, snack, or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or feta. Just make sure it’s grated for easy incorporation. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with a flax egg and use dairy-free cheese and yogurt. - How do I store leftover cabbage cakes?
Store the cabbage cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. - Can I prepare the cakes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage mixture and form the patties in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying or baking. - Can I use frozen cabbage?
It’s best to use fresh cabbage, but if you only have frozen cabbage, make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. - How do I make the cabbage cakes crispy?
To make the cakes extra crispy, bake them at the end for a few minutes after frying. - What can I serve the cabbage cakes with?
They go well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or as a side to grilled chicken or fish. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and ensuring the oats are certified gluten-free. - Can I add other vegetables to the patties?
Yes, feel free to add grated zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients. - Can I make the yogurt sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the yogurt walnut dill sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.