Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Ground beef – 500g (1 lb 2 oz)
• Potatoes – 3 medium, grated
• Mayonnaise – 1 tablespoon
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Butter – 30g (1 oz), melted
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – To taste
• Parsley – A handful, chopped
• Olive oil – For frying

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Grate the Potatoes: Peel and grate 3 medium potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Removing excess water will ensure the patties turn out crispy and golden.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Set them aside to be added to the beef mixture later.

Step 2: Mix the Beef and Potato Mixture

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 500g of ground beef with the grated potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Add 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, 30g of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and black pepper to taste.
2. Add the Fresh Herbs: Finely chop a handful of parsley and add it to the beef mixture for a fresh, herby flavor. Use your hands or a spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

1. Form the Patties: Using your hands, shape the beef and potato mixture into round patties. Each patty should be about the size of the palm of your hand and around 1-1.5 cm thick. You should be able to make about 8-10 patties from this recipe.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

1. Heat the Oil: Heat about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan but not so much that the patties are submerged.
2. Fry the Patties: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature of the patties should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure the beef is fully cooked.
3. Drain the Patties: After frying, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining patties, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

Step 5: Serve the Patties

1. Serve Hot: These crispy beef and potato patties are best served hot. You can garnish them with a bit of fresh parsley and serve them with a dipping sauce like ketchup, garlic aioli, or sour cream. They also pair well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes.

Cooking Tips:

• Removing Moisture from Potatoes: After grating the potatoes, it’s crucial to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Wet potatoes can make the patties soggy and prevent them from becoming crispy.
• Adjusting the Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning in the patties by adding other spices like cumin, chili flakes, or thyme for additional flavor. You can also add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for a more savory taste.
• Preventing Patties from Falling Apart: If your patties are falling apart during frying, try adding 1 tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together.
• Cooking in Batches: Fry the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures they cook evenly and achieve a crisp exterior.
• Baking Option: If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to retain their crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for later use. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator and fry as instructed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 8 Patties):

• Calories: 320-350 kcal
• Protein: 18-20 g
• Fat: 20-22 g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15 g
• Fiber: 2-3 g
• Sodium: 600-700 mg

These patties are a good source of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the potatoes. The addition of mayonnaise and butter adds richness and flavor, while frying in olive oil contributes healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that leaner meats may require a bit more oil or a binding agent to prevent the patties from drying out.

2. Can I make these patties in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This can save time if you’re planning to serve them for a party or gathering.

3. What can I serve with these patties? These patties pair well with a variety of side dishes. Try serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a side salad, or even in a sandwich or wrap for a complete meal.

4. How do I keep the patties from getting greasy? To avoid greasy patties, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to the pan. This ensures that the patties fry rather than soak up the oil. Draining the patties on paper towels after frying also helps to remove excess oil.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the mixture? Yes! You can add finely chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the vegetables before mixing them into the patties.

Conclusion:

Crispy Beef and Potato Patties are a flavorful, versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With a deliciously crispy exterior and tender, savory filling, these patties are sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, the combination of ground beef, grated potatoes, and aromatic seasonings creates a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. Try experimenting with different herbs and spices to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the irresistible flavor of these crispy, golden patties.