Cauliflower Patties with Vegan Tartar Sauce

These Cauliflower Patties with Vegan Tartar Sauce are a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Made with nutrient-packed cauliflower and a combination of almond flour and psyllium husk to create a crispy, yet tender patty, these are a great option for anyone looking for a plant-based meal. The homemade vegan tartar sauce adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the patties perfectly. Whether you’re following a vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free diet, this dish is versatile and sure to impress!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 1 head of cauliflower
  • 2 tablespoons (12 g) psyllium husk
  • 1 cup (100 g) ground almonds
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped
  • Oil for frying

For the Vegan Tartar Sauce:

  • 1 avocado, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 6 pickles, chopped
  • 5 tablespoons (70 ml) dairy-free yogurt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Cauliflower:

  1. Cut the leaves off the base of the cauliflower and break it down into small florets.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the cauliflower florets.
  3. Simmer the cauliflower for 3 minutes, then drain and let it cool completely.

Make the Vegan Tartar Sauce:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped avocado, vinegar, and chopped pickles.
  2. Add the dairy-free yogurt, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
  3. Chill the sauce in the fridge for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prepare the Patties:

  1. Grate the cooled cauliflower florets and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the psyllium husk, ground almonds, salt, black pepper, chopped green onions, and chopped garlic. Mix everything until well combined.
  3. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the psyllium husk to absorb moisture and thicken the mixture.

Form and Cook the Patties:

  1. With wet hands, roll the cauliflower mixture into balls and then flatten them into patties.
  2. Heat a lightly greased frying pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cover with a lid.
  3. Fry the patties for about 3-5 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the patties and fry the other side for another 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.

Serve:

  1. Serve the cauliflower patties hot with the chilled vegan tartar sauce.
  2. Enjoy with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables, or serve in a sandwich or wrap for a more substantial meal.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, and fiber, cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable that supports immunity, digestion, and overall health.
  • Almonds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, vitamin E, and fiber, supporting heart health and energy levels.
  • Psyllium Husk: A good source of soluble fiber, psyllium helps with digestion, promotes gut health, and supports stable blood sugar levels.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten in their diet.
  • Vegan: The tartar sauce is dairy-free, making the entire dish vegan-friendly.
  • Nut-Free Option: To make this dish nut-free, simply substitute the ground almonds with sunflower seed flour or another nut-free alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These cauliflower patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, giving you the perfect texture balance in each bite.
  • The vegan tartar sauce adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the savory cauliflower patties, enhancing the overall dish.
  • It’s a nutritious, plant-based meal that’s suitable for various dietary needs, whether you follow a vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free lifestyle. It’s also packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you satisfied.

Cooking Tips

  1. Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained and cooled before grating to avoid excess moisture in the patties.
  2. Use a non-stick pan or lightly grease the pan to prevent the patties from sticking.
  3. For extra flavor, try adding herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme to the patty mixture.
  4. Adjust the seasoning to taste; if you prefer a spicier version, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the patty mixture.
  5. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more ground almonds or psyllium husk to achieve the right consistency for forming patties.

Variations to Try

  1. Spicy Cauliflower Patties: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the patty mixture for a spicy kick.
  2. Herb-Infused Patties: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill to enhance the flavor.
  3. Cheesy Cauliflower Patties: Add nutritional yeast to the mixture for a cheesy, vegan twist.
  4. Mushroom Cauliflower Patties: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a savory, earthy flavor.
  5. Cauliflower Patties with Avocado Slices: Top the patties with slices of fresh avocado for added creaminess and texture.

Conclusion

These Cauliflower Patties with Vegan Tartar Sauce are a delicious and healthy meal option that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The crispy patties combined with the creamy tartar sauce create the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a tasty and nutritious meal, these patties are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or main course, and feel free to get creative with your serving options!

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I make these patties in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked patties and fry them later.

  2. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
    Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before grating to avoid excess moisture.

  3. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
    Yes, you can bake them. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them with oil, and bake at 180°C (355°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  4. How can I store leftovers?
    Store the leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a frying pan or oven before serving.

  5. Can I use regular yogurt instead of dairy-free yogurt?
    Yes, you can use regular yogurt if you’re not following a vegan diet, but for a vegan version, make sure to use dairy-free yogurt.