Cabbage Patties with Creamy Dill Sauce: A Hearty Vegetarian Delight

When it comes to creating comfort food that’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and delicious, these Cabbage Patties with Creamy Dill Sauce tick all the boxes. This vegetarian recipe combines simple ingredients to produce patties that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Paired with a creamy dill sauce, these patties elevate humble cabbage into a dish that’s perfect as a main course, side dish, or even a snack.

Cabbage has long been a staple in kitchens worldwide due to its versatility, affordability, and nutritional value. In this recipe, it shines as the star ingredient, supported by carrots, onions, and a hint of garlic for depth and aroma. The patties are pan-fried to golden perfection, while the dill-infused sauce adds a fresh and tangy element that makes every bite irresistible.

Let’s explore this recipe in detail, from the preparation of the patties to the final drizzle of sauce, and discover why it’s a dish you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

For the Patties:

  • 500 grams cabbage, finely chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumbs for coating
  • Olive oil for frying

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • Sprig of dill, finely chopped

Garnish:

  • Sprig of parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

  • Start by finely chopping the cabbage. If you have a food processor, you can use it for quicker preparation. Place the cabbage in a large bowl.
  • Finely chop the onion and grate the carrot. Add these to the bowl with the cabbage.
  • Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the vegetable mixture.

2. Mix the Patty Base

  • Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix thoroughly to combine the vegetables with the eggs.
  • Add the flour, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until the mixture starts to come together and holds its shape.

3. Form the Patties

  • Take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture, forming evenly sized patties.
  • Coat each patty lightly with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

4. Fry the Patties

  • Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry the patties in batches, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp.
  • Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce

  • In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and ketchup. Stir until smooth.
  • Add the finely chopped dill and mix well. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed.

6. Serve the Patties

  • Arrange the cabbage patties on a serving plate. Drizzle the creamy dill sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The Cabbage Patties with Creamy Dill Sauce recipe captures the essence of timeless cooking. Here’s why this dish has universal appeal:

  1. Affordable and Accessible: Using readily available ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and eggs, this recipe is budget-friendly and perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
  2. Nutritional Benefits: Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while carrots and dill provide additional antioxidants and nutrients, making this dish both tasty and wholesome.
  3. Versatility: These patties can be served as a main course with a side salad, as a side dish for soups or stews, or even as a sandwich filling for a quick meal.
  4. Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe caters to vegetarians and can easily be adapted for vegans by replacing the eggs with a plant-based binder.
  5. Homemade Touch: The creamy dill sauce adds a personal, homemade touch that elevates the dish from everyday to extraordinary.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

1. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method reduces the amount of oil used.

2. What other vegetables can I add?

You can include grated zucchini, chopped spinach, or corn kernels to enhance the flavor and texture of the patties.

3. Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.

4. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to finely chop the vegetables and mix the ingredients thoroughly. If the mixture feels too loose, add an extra tablespoon of flour.

Tips for Making Perfect Cabbage Patties

  1. Shred the Cabbage Finely: Finely shredding the cabbage ensures the patties hold together and cook evenly.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Letting the mixture rest in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before forming patties can help it firm up.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley provide a vibrant flavor that enhances the dish.
  4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the patties in batches to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
  5. Customize the Sauce: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy dill sauce for a flavor twist.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Reheat the patties in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Repeating

The Cabbage Patties with Creamy Dill Sauce are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. This dish transforms everyday vegetables into something special, offering a balance of textures and flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe truly timeless is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, serving it at a potluck, or enjoying it as a quick snack, these patties fit the occasion perfectly. The creamy dill sauce complements the patties beautifully, adding a touch of freshness and indulgence that elevates the dish.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. These cabbage patties are more than just food—they’re an experience, a tradition, and a reminder that great cooking begins with simple, wholesome ingredients. Share them with loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime.