These delicious Cauliflower Patties are a family favorite, combining the goodness of cauliflower and potatoes with a crispy, cheesy crust. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, they’re sure to impress your family and guests. Let’s get started!
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1 kg potatoes
For Boiling:
- Water (enough to cover vegetables)
- 2 teaspoons salt (1 teaspoon for cauliflower, 1 teaspoon for potatoes)
For the Patties:
- 2 eggs
- 130g breadcrumbs
- Candied nuts (optional, for extra crunch)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 100g grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or a blend)
- Chopped fresh parsley
For the Mashed Potatoes (Optional):
- 80g butter
- 100ml milk
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and cut the cauliflower into florets.
- In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Cook the cauliflower florets for 10-12 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
- Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a large bowl to cool.
- Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
- In a separate pot, bring enough water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Cook the potato chunks until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking liquid (in case you need it for the mashed potatoes later).
- Mash the Vegetables:
- Once the cauliflower has cooled slightly, mash it with a potato masher or in a food processor until mostly smooth, with some small florets remaining for texture.
- Mash the cooked potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher, hand mixer, or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Combine and Form the Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed cauliflower, mashed potatoes (optional, you can serve them separately), eggs, breadcrumbs, candied nuts (if using), grated cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is well combined and a cohesive mixture forms.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- With wet or oiled hands, shape the mixture into patties of your desired size and thickness. Aim for about ½ inch thickness for even cooking.
- Bake the Patties:
- Drizzle the top of the cauliflower patties with olive oil for added flavor and crispness.
- Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes (Optional):
- If you are making mashed potatoes, combine the cooked potatoes with butter and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the Grandma’s Secret Cauliflower Patties hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauce like marinara sauce, pesto, or yogurt sauce.
- You can also serve them with the optional mashed potatoes for a complete vegetarian main course.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower and potatoes are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the patties.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more or less salt, pepper, and spices as desired.
- For extra crunch, consider adding a layer of breadcrumbs on the outside before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, and provides fiber and antioxidants.
- Potatoes: Provide potassium and vitamin B6.
- Cheese: Adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy vegetables.
- The combination of cauliflower, potatoes, cheese, and herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Conclusion:
Grandma’s Secret Cauliflower Patties are a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty recipe with your friends and family!