Savory Oatmeal Patties

These Savory Oatmeal Patties are a nutritious and hearty option for a breakfast, snack, or light meal. With oats, grated carrots, and Parmesan cheese, they offer a satisfying texture and great flavor, while being easy to make. The addition of yogurt and egg helps bind the ingredients together, making them perfect for a crispy, golden patty. These can be topped with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor. These patties are great for those looking for a savory twist on traditional oatmeal.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10-15 minutes

Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Cuisine: Vegetarian, Breakfast, Snack

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons yogurt (preferably plain)
• 1 egg
• 100 ml water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 100 g carrots, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:

1. Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, water, and yogurt. Let the oats soak in the liquid for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.

2. Add the egg to the soaked oats and mix well. The egg will help bind the mixture together and provide a little extra protein.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Grate the carrot and add it to the oat mixture along with the sautéed onions and garlic.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

1. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together to form a slightly thick batter.

4. Shape the Patties:

1. With your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter, depending on your preference. You should be able to make about 8-10 patties.

5. Cook the Patties:

1. In the same skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, cooking in batches if necessary.

2. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

3. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve and Garnish:

1. Once the patties have cooled slightly, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor.

2. Serve warm on their own, with a dipping sauce, or as part of a larger meal. They pair well with a side salad or can be enjoyed as a topping for avocado toast.

Serving Suggestions:

1. As a Snack or Appetizer:
   Serve the savory oatmeal patties as a light snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tahini, yogurt-based sauce, or tomato salsa.

2. For Breakfast:
   These patties are great as a savory breakfast option. Serve with scrambled eggs or a side of fresh vegetables for a well-balanced meal.

3. In a Wrap or Sandwich:
   Place a few patties inside a whole-grain wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a hearty lunch or dinner.

4. As a Side Dish:
   Pair these savory oatmeal patties with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a light and nutritious meal.

Cooking Tips:

1. Let the Oats Soak:
   Soaking the oats for 5 minutes before mixing helps them absorb the liquid and soften, making it easier to form patties.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
   When cooking the patties, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.

3. Customize the Filling:
   Feel free to add other ingredients to the patties, such as chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.

4. Make It Vegan:
   To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a dairy-free yogurt and cheese alternative.

Variations to Try:

1. Spicy Savory Patties:
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Herb-infused Patties:
   Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or dill for extra flavor.

3. Cheese Variations:
   Substitute the Parmesan with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

4. Add More Vegetables:
   Incorporate chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added color and flavor.

Conclusion:

These Savory Oatmeal Patties are a healthy, versatile dish that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a light meal, or as a savory breakfast, they are delicious and easy to make. Plus, they are fully customizable, so you can experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor, these patties are a wonderful way to enjoy oats in a savory dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or oven before serving.

2. Can I freeze these patties?
   Yes, these patties freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet.

3. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
   It’s best to use rolled oats for texture, but quick oats can work if that’s all you have. Just be aware that the texture of the patties might be slightly different.

4. What can I use instead of yogurt?
   If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or even a bit of mayonnaise for a creamy consistency.

5. How can I make these patties crispy without frying?
   You can bake these patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to get a crispy texture without frying.

6. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the patty mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

7. Can I make these patties without cheese?
   Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version or simply want a lighter patty.

8. How can I adjust the seasoning?
   Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and paprika are great options to try.

9. How do I know when the patties are done?
   The patties should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can also check by pressing gently on the center to ensure they are cooked through.

10. What can I serve these patties with?
    These patties go well with a variety of sides, including fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy dipping sauce like tzatziki or salsa.