Ingredients

For the Minced Meat Patties:

• 600 g minced meat (beef or lamb, or a mixture)
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional, for added flavor)
• 800 g potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 150 g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 200 g sour cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
• 1 teaspoon sugar, to balance acidity

For the Fresh Salad:

• Mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, or any variety)
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon French mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4 servings
• Kcal per serving: Approximately 600-700 kcal (depends on portion sizes and specific ingredients used)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Begin by boiling the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
• Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, mash them with a fork or potato masher, adding a tablespoon of butter and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside.

2. Prepare the Minced Meat Patties:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onions, and dill (if using). Season the mixture with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and Italian herb blend. Mix everything well until combined, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
• Take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into round patties, about 2-3 cm thick. You can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
• Heat a pan with a bit of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the size of the patties. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

3. Prepare the Mushroom Sauce:

• In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the sliced mushrooms until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. This will help thicken the sauce. Let the flour cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
• Gradually add the sour cream while stirring to create a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herb blend. Add the teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the sour cream and enhance the flavors.
• Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and coat the mushrooms. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

4. Prepare the Salad:

• While the patties are cooking and the sauce is simmering, prepare the salad by tossing the mixed salad greens in a large bowl.
• Add the thinly sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, paprika, and sliced onion to the salad.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the French mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together to coat evenly.

5. Serve the Dish:

• Once the patties, sauce, and salad are ready, it’s time to assemble your meal. Place a generous portion of mashed potatoes on each plate, followed by the crispy meat patties.
• Spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over the patties, allowing the richness to soak into the meat and potatoes.
• Serve with a side of fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless

This Minced Meat Patties with Creamy Mushroom Sauce and Fresh Salad is a timeless dish because it brings together basic ingredients that have been staples in home cooking for generations, yet it presents them in a fresh, flavorful way. The combination of minced meat, onions, garlic, and seasoning is something that most cultures can relate to, making it a universally loved dish. The addition of the creamy mushroom sauce elevates the meal, transforming the simple patties into something indulgent and comforting.

The inclusion of mashed potatoes as a side adds heartiness to the dish, while the fresh salad provides a contrast of textures and flavors that balance the richness of the meat and sauce. It’s a meal that satisfies both the appetite and the desire for a well-rounded plate. Additionally, the salad dressing with mustard adds a tangy freshness that cuts through the heaviness of the creamy sauce and mashed potatoes.

What truly makes this dish timeless is its versatility. It can be adjusted based on the ingredients available or to suit dietary preferences. The patties can be made with beef, lamb, or even a combination of meats, and the sauce can be modified to include different herbs or vegetables. The salad can be customized with various fresh vegetables, nuts, or seeds for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 600-700 kcal (depends on portion sizes)
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 7g
• Vitamin A: 20% of the Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 15% of the Daily Value
• Calcium: 10% of the Daily Value
• Iron: 20% of the Daily Value

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken would work well in this recipe as a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as these meats tend to be milder in flavor.

2. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the cooking process quicker when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this dish without mushrooms?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with other vegetables, like onions, bell peppers, or spinach, or simply skip the sauce altogether and serve the patties with a different accompaniment.

4. Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, you can freeze the patties before frying. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. To cook, simply fry them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Tips for Making

• Crispy Patties: To ensure your patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding them to the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause them to steam rather than fry.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the flour slightly or reduce the amount of sour cream for a more concentrated flavor.
• Salad Variations: Add other fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes, to the salad for added crunch and color.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers: Store leftover patties and mushroom sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
• Freezing: The patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just cook the patties and let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven or a pan when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Minced Meat Patties with Creamy Mushroom Sauce and Fresh Salad is a complete and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors with fresh ingredients. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home. The tender patties, savory mushroom sauce, and refreshing salad make a timeless combination that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a comforting and nutritious meal that will please everyone at the table.