This recipe for potato and carrot cheese patties is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish. These patties are made with simple ingredients like potatoes, carrots, cheese, and onions, and they are seasoned to perfection with pepper and herbs. You can serve them as a snack, side dish, or even as a light main course with a salad or dipping sauce. Plus, the addition of sweet and sour cucumbers gives a refreshing twist to the savory flavors.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1. 2 large potatoes (400-500 g): Choose starchy or all-purpose potatoes as they give a creamy texture.
2. 1 big carrot (or 2 small carrots): Adds a slight sweetness and beautiful color to the patties.
3. Black pepper: For seasoning and a touch of spice.
4. Sweet and sour cucumbers: These add a tangy crunch to balance out the richness of the patties.
5. 2 tablespoons of flour: Helps bind the patties and gives them a nice crispy exterior.
6. Chives: Freshly chopped for a mild oniony flavor.
7. 80g of cheese: Use a melting cheese like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for added richness.
8. 2 onions: Sautéed for a caramelized depth of flavor.
9. Olive oil: For frying the patties and sautéing the onions.
10. Water: Used in boiling the potatoes and carrots.
11. Salt: Essential for seasoning the vegetables and patties.
12. Pepper: Adds flavor and seasoning balance.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Carrots

• Peel and Cut: Peel the potatoes and carrots. Cut them into chunks for even boiling.
• Boil: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the potato and carrot chunks and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and easily mashed with a fork.
• Drain and Mash: Once cooked, drain the water and allow the vegetables to cool slightly. Mash them into a smooth mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Other Ingredients

• Chop the Onions: Finely chop the onions and sweet and sour cucumbers.
• Sauté the Onions: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
• Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheese and set aside for later.

Step 3: Make the Patties

• Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, carrots, sautéed onions, grated cheese, chopped sweet and sour cucumbers, and chives. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of black pepper to taste.
• Add Flour: Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the mixture to help bind the patties.
• Form Patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm. You should get around 8-10 patties, depending on size.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

• Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Fry: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the pan and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate and Garnish: Serve the patties warm, garnished with extra chopped chives or a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream or yogurt-based dips.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or the oven to restore their crispness.
• Freezing: If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Lay them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frying.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet with a little olive oil or bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 Patty):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

Cooking Tips:

• Cheese Substitutions: You can use any type of cheese that melts well, like cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a saltier flavor. If you want to make the patties dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Flour Alternatives: If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute the wheat flour with almond flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
• Crispier Patties: For an extra crispy texture, lightly coat the patties in breadcrumbs before frying.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these patties alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish with roasted meats. They also make a great vegetarian option for burgers if served in a bun with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Q: Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
  A: Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.
• Q: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
  A: Absolutely! You can add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or peas to the mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
  A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a sweeter and slightly different flavor. They also pair wonderfully with the cheese and carrots.
• Q: What can I serve with these patties?
  A: These patties are versatile and can be served as a main course with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a dipping sauce. They also work well as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or burgers.