This recipe for Minced Meat Patties with Semolina is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The addition of semolina adds a unique texture, while onions, potatoes, and spices elevate the flavor of these patties. The result is juicy, tender patties with a crispy outer layer. These can be served with a side of vegetables, rice, or even tucked into a sandwich. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make these delicious patties.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Minced meat (beef, chicken, or turkey) – 500 g
• Semolina – 4 tablespoons
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Potato – 1 medium, grated
• Eggs – 1 large
• Black ground pepper – 1/5 teaspoon
• Dry ground garlic – 1 teaspoon (or 1 fresh garlic clove, minced)
• Sweet ground paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Finely chop the onion and grate the potato. If using fresh garlic, mince it finely.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, grated potato, and egg.
   • Add the semolina, black ground pepper, dry garlic (or minced garlic), sweet paprika, and salt.
   • Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should have a slightly sticky consistency due to the semolina and egg.
3. Let the Mixture Rest:
   • Allow the mixture to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps the semolina absorb some moisture, which will make the patties more tender when cooked.
4. Shape the Patties:
   • After resting, take small portions of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and shape them into flat, round patties with your hands. The patties should be about 1 cm thick for even cooking.
5. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the patties.
6. Cook the Patties:
   • Place the patties in the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
   • Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip the patties gently to avoid breaking them.
   • If necessary, cook the patties in batches to ensure even cooking.
7. Serve:
   • Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
   • Serve the patties hot with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, salad, or in a sandwich with fresh veggies and sauces.

Cooking Tips

• Grated Potato: Grating the potato finely allows it to cook quickly and blend seamlessly with the minced meat, providing moisture and a subtle flavor.
• Semolina: The semolina acts as a binding agent, keeping the patties tender. You can substitute breadcrumbs if you don’t have semolina on hand.
• Fresh Garlic: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the amount of fresh garlic used or add a dash of garlic powder along with the fresh clove.
• Frying Temperature: Make sure to cook the patties over medium heat. Cooking them too quickly on high heat may result in a crispy exterior but undercooked interior.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: These patties freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat?
   • Yes, you can use beef, chicken, turkey, or even lamb for these patties. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
2. What can I substitute for semolina?
   • If you don’t have semolina, breadcrumbs or oatmeal can be used as a substitute. These will still give the patties a similar texture.
3. How can I make the patties gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of semolina to make the patties suitable for those avoiding gluten.
4. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
   • Yes, you can bake the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Conclusion

These Minced Meat Patties with Semolina are an excellent option for a quick, satisfying meal. The semolina adds a soft and unique texture, while the combination of garlic, paprika, and onion flavors the meat beautifully. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re serving them as the main course or as part of a larger meal, these patties are sure to please. Plus, they store well, making them a great option for meal prepping. Enjoy these flavorful patties with your favorite side dish or inside a soft bun for a delicious, homemade meal!