Cauliflower Patties with Vegan Tartar Sauce

These cauliflower patties offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making them a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or even a snack. The golden-brown exterior of the patties provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender cauliflower inside melts in your mouth. Paired with a creamy and tangy vegan tartar sauce, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower Patties:

  • 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp psyllium husk (acts as a binder)
  • 1 cup (100g) ground almonds
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • Oil for frying

For the Vegan Tartar Sauce:

  • 1 avocado, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
  • 4-6 pickles, finely chopped
  • 70ml (5 tbsp) dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut or almond yogurt)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
    • Instructions:

      1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
        • Start by cutting the cauliflower into small florets. Steam or boil the florets until they are soft, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once the cauliflower is tender, drain any excess water and mash the florets with a fork or potato masher until you achieve a coarse, somewhat chunky consistency. Avoid over-mashing, as a bit of texture will make the patties more satisfying.
      2. Mix the Patties:
        • Transfer the mashed cauliflower into a large mixing bowl. Add the psyllium husk, which acts as a binder, and the ground almonds, which give the patties a nutty flavor and extra crunch. Mix in the finely chopped green onions and garlic, then season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken, as the psyllium husk absorbs moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
      3. Form the Patties:
        • Once the mixture has thickened, divide it into equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. The mixture should yield about 8-10 patties, depending on the size you prefer. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, you can lightly oil your hands or dust them with ground almonds.
      4. Cook the Patties:
        • Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip the patties, taking care not to break them. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
      5. Prepare the Vegan Tartar Sauce:
        • While the patties are frying, you can prepare the tartar sauce. In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped avocado, vinegar, chopped pickles, and dairy-free yogurt. Mix the ingredients until well blended and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. The tartar sauce should have a tangy and slightly chunky texture, perfect for dipping the crispy patties.
      6. Serve:
        • Serve the cauliflower patties warm, alongside the vegan tartar sauce. These patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair them with a fresh green salad for a light lunch, serve them as an appetizer at a dinner party, or even stuff them into a pita or wrap for a tasty sandwich.

Possible Questions:

What if I don’t have psyllium husk? If you don’t have psyllium husk on hand, you can substitute it with ground flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with water. Both alternatives act as effective binders in vegan recipes.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.

Is there a substitute for ground almonds? If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute ground almonds with breadcrumbs or oat flour. These alternatives will still provide a good texture to the patties.

How can I make the tartar sauce creamier? For an extra creamy tartar sauce, you can blend the avocado with the dairy-free yogurt until smooth. This will create a more uniform texture, perfect for spreading on sandwiches or wraps.

Tips:

  • For added flavor, you can mix some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, into the patty mixture.
  • To make the patties spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
  • If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika to the patty mixture.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat or bake them in the oven until they are warmed through and crispy again. The vegan tartar sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days as well; just give it a good stir before serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 2g

Conclusion:

These cauliflower patties are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for any meal. The combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, along with the creamy vegan tartar sauce, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a healthy main course, a satisfying snack, or a tasty appetizer, these patties are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy them fresh, or make a batch to have on hand for quick and easy meals throughout the week!