These Savory Oatmeal Patties with Mozzarella are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy oatmeal in a savory dish. With simple ingredients like eggs, yogurt, onion, and flavorful Provencal herbs, these patties are perfect as a side dish, snack, or even as a light meal. The melted mozzarella in the middle adds a creamy, cheesy center, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oatmeal (preferably quick or rolled oats)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 100 ml (⅖ cup) water
- Salt, to taste
- Provencal herbs, to taste (such as thyme, rosemary, oregano)
- Mozzarella, cubed (about 100g or 3.5 oz)
- ½ onion, thinly sliced for topping
Directions:
- Prepare the oatmeal mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of oatmeal with 100 ml water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften the oats.
- Mix in other ingredients:
- Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 eggs, 2 tbsp yogurt, and season with salt and Provencal herbs to taste. Stir until everything is well combined and forms a thick batter.
- Form the patties:
- Divide the oatmeal mixture into portions and form them into small patties. Insert a cube of mozzarella in the center of each patty, pressing the mixture around it to fully enclose the cheese.
- Cook the patties:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.
- Add the patties to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Top with sliced onions:
- While the patties are cooking, lightly sauté the ½ onion, sliced, in a separate pan until soft and golden. Use it as a garnish for the patties once cooked.
- Serve:
- Serve the patties warm with the sautéed onions on top. Enjoy them on their own or pair them with a side salad or dip.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a dipping sauce like tzatziki or a yogurt-based dip.
- Serve alongside a hearty soup or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.
- Enjoy with a slice of toasted bread and some pickles for a snack.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the oatmeal mixture is thick enough to hold the shape of the patties. If it’s too runny, add a little more oatmeal.
- Use quick-cooking oats for a smoother texture or rolled oats for a chunkier bite.
- For a crispy texture, lightly dust the patties with flour before frying.
- If you prefer baked patties, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any cheese that melts well.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in fiber: Oatmeal provides a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you full.
- Protein-packed: Eggs and mozzarella add a healthy dose of protein.
- Good fats: The cheese and yogurt contribute healthy fats.
- Herb-rich: Provencal herbs offer antioxidant properties and enhance flavor without added calories.
- Low-carb option: These patties are lower in carbohydrates than traditional bread or potato-based patties.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats if you have gluten sensitivities.
- High-Protein: Eggs and mozzarella boost the protein content, making these patties filling and nutritious.
- Low-Carb: Suitable for low-carb diets, especially if you substitute the oats with almond flour.
Nutritional Facts (Per Patty, Approximate):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in a pan or oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy: Minimal prep and cook time make this a perfect recipe for busy days.
- Healthy and satisfying: These patties are packed with fiber, protein, and wholesome ingredients.
- Delicious cheesy center: The gooey mozzarella in the middle adds a creamy, indulgent touch.
- Versatile: You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or as a snack or side dish.
- Kid-friendly: The cheesy center and mild flavors make this a great recipe for kids.
Conclusion:
These Savory Oatmeal Patties with Mozzarella are a versatile and nutritious addition to your meal rotation. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, they’re perfect for a healthy snack, side dish, or even a main meal. The combination of oats, eggs, yogurt, and mozzarella offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors that will leave you coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Can I make these patties vegan?
- To make them vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use dairy-free yogurt and cheese.
- Can I freeze the patties?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties. Let them cool completely before freezing. Reheat them in a pan or oven when ready to eat.
- What can I use instead of Provencal herbs?
- You can substitute with Italian seasoning, or use a blend of thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil.
- Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
- Absolutely! Grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach would work well in this recipe for added nutrients and flavor.