Ingredients:

• Rolled Oats: 1 cup
• Yogurt: 2 tablespoons
• Egg: 1
• Water: 100 ml
• Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Carrots: 100 g, grated
• Garlic Clove: 1, minced
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 tablespoon, grated
• Salt: To taste
• Olive Oil: For cooking
• Sesame Seeds: For topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and 100 ml of water. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until the oats absorb the water and soften.
   • Add the yogurt, egg, and a pinch of salt to the softened oats. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Add the Vegetables and Cheese:
   • Stir in the finely chopped onion, grated carrots, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Form the Patties:
   • Heat a little olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
   • Using your hands or a spoon, form the oatmeal mixture into small patties, about the size of a palm. You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but be sure they hold together well.
4. Cook the Patties:
   • Place the patties in the hot frying pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
   • While cooking, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the patties for added flavor and texture.
   • If necessary, cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Serve:
   • Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
   • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, a dollop of yogurt, or as part of a meal with a side salad.

Additional Information

Tips:

• Binding the Mixture: If the mixture feels too wet and the patties aren’t holding together well, add a little more oats or a tablespoon of flour to help bind the ingredients.
• Flavor Variations: Add herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill to the mixture for extra flavor. You can also add spices like cumin, paprika, or black pepper for a different taste profile.
• Cheese Substitution: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with any other hard cheese, like cheddar or Pecorino Romano.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to regain their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Rolled Oats: A great source of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and K, and antioxidants that support overall health.
• Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
• Yogurt: Adds a bit of creaminess and is a good source of probiotics and calcium.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Possible Questions:

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
   Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the patties may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a bit more structure.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   To make the patties vegan, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based yogurt and cheese.
3. What can I serve these patties with?
   These patties go well with a variety of sauces, such as tzatziki, hummus, or a simple yogurt dip. They also pair nicely with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
4. How do I prevent the patties from sticking to the pan?
   Make sure your pan is well-heated and lightly oiled before adding the patties. A non-stick pan works best for this recipe.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the patties?
   Yes, you can add other grated or finely chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the mixture.
6. How can I make the patties more crispy?
   To make the patties crispier, cook them on medium-high heat and avoid flipping them too often. You can also add a bit of breadcrumbs to the mixture.
7. Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
8. What type of yogurt is best for this recipe?
   Plain Greek yogurt works best due to its thick texture, but regular plain yogurt will work as well.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you’re making patties for a crowd or want to have leftovers.
10. How long do these patties last?
    When stored properly in the refrigerator, these patties can last for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

These Savory Oatmeal and Vegetable Patties are a nutritious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy breakfast option, or a side dish to complement your meal, these patties are a great choice. Packed with wholesome ingredients and full of flavor, they’re easy to make and sure to satisfy. Enjoy them fresh out of the pan with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and your favorite dip!