Ingredients

• 1/2 pumpkin (about 400g or 14 oz)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 pepper (green or red), finely chopped
• Spring onions, finely chopped (optional)
• Parsley, finely chopped
• 6 tablespoons oatmeal
• 2 eggs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying and brushing

For Serving

• 2 tablespoons yogurt
• 2 canned cucumbers (or pickles), sliced
• 3 olives
• Dill, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pumpkin:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and place the half pumpkin on a baking tray.
   • Bake for about 40 minutes or until the pumpkin is soft and tender.
   • Once baked, scoop out the flesh and mash it with a fork. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • In a pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
   • Add the grated carrot and finely chopped pepper to the pan, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
   • Remove from heat and let the vegetable mixture cool slightly.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, sautéed vegetables, spring onions, parsley, oatmeal, and eggs.
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Mix everything thoroughly until a uniform batter is formed. The oats will help bind the mixture and absorb any excess moisture.
4. Shape the Patties:
   • Take small portions of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and shape them into patties using your hands.
   • The patties should be about 1 cm thick for even cooking.
5. Cook the Patties:
   • Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil.
   • Fry the patties in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
   • Alternatively, you can bake the patties in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
6. Serve:
   • Once the patties are golden brown and cooked through, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
   • Serve the patties hot with a side of yogurt, sliced canned cucumbers, olives, and finely chopped dill.

Cooking Tips

• Pumpkin: Make sure to roast the pumpkin until it’s soft, as this will help create a smooth texture for the patties.
• Oatmeal: If the batter is too wet, add an extra tablespoon of oats to help bind it.
• Frying vs. Baking: For a healthier version, bake the patties in the oven instead of frying them. This will reduce the amount of oil used.

Storage

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

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of squash?
   • Yes, you can substitute pumpkin with butternut squash or any other type of squash you prefer.
2. Can I make the patties gluten-free?
   • To make this dish gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
3. What can I serve with these patties?
   • These patties pair well with yogurt, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
   • Yes, feel free to add vegetables like grated zucchini, spinach, or even corn to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
5. How can I make the patties more flavorful?
   • You can add spices like cumin, paprika, or curry powder to the mixture for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

These Savory Pumpkin and Oatmeal Patties are a nutritious and tasty option for a quick meal or snack. With the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin, the texture of oats, and the added flavor of vegetables and spices, these patties are not only delicious but also wholesome. They are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, making them a great addition to any meal. Whether baked or fried, these patties are sure to become a family favorite!