Vegetable meatballs

Vegetable Patties - a Healthy and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love patties? These delights are loved by all ages and offer an excellent way to include vegetables in our diet. Plus, they are very versatile and can be adapted according to personal preferences. In this recipe, we will prepare crispy vegetable patties with a soft and flavorful interior. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course!

Our ingredients are simple, accessible, and packed with nutrients. Each ingredient plays an essential role in the final texture and taste, so let's discover them together!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes (preferably of the type that holds well when boiled)
- 2 medium carrots
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 eggs (make sure to measure their size)
- 1 small broccoli
- Flour (about 100-150 g, depending on the consistency of the mixture)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Paprika (optional, but recommended for a touch of color and flavor)

A Brief History:
Patties have a long and fascinating history, being prepared in various forms around the world since ancient times. They are often seen as a way to use up leftover meat or vegetables, making them both economical and sustainable. Nowadays, vegetable patties have gained popularity as a healthy and delicious choice, appreciated by vegetarians and vegans alike.

Step by Step - Preparing Vegetable Patties:

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Use a food processor to save time; chop the parsley, carrots, and broccoli. Make sure the vegetables are finely chopped so that they blend perfectly into the patties' mixture.

2. Preparing the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Boil them in salted water until soft, then drain well and mash them. It is important to squeeze out excess water, as moisture can cause the patties to become too soft.

3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the carrots, broccoli, and chopped parsley. Add the 5 crushed cloves of garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to homogenize all the ingredients.

4. Adding the Flour:
Start adding the flour gradually, mixing constantly. The goal is to achieve a mixture that binds well but is not too sticky. The amount of flour may vary depending on the moisture of the ingredients, so adjust as necessary.

5. Forming the Patties:
Fill a plate with water and wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and form patties of the desired size. Place them on a tray or plate.

6. Cooking the Patties:
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil is well heated before adding the patties, so they fry evenly and become golden and crispy. Fry them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each.

7. Finishing and Serving:
Once ready, remove the patties onto an absorbent paper towel to eliminate excess oil. Serve them hot, alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce.

My Tip:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add some spices like cumin or coriander. Also, if you want a healthier version, you can bake the patties in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, pumpkin, or spinach integrate excellently into this recipe.

2. How can I store the patties?
You can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or you can freeze them to enjoy later.

3. What sauces go well with vegetable patties?
Yogurt-based sauces, tzatziki sauce, or a spicy tomato sauce are excellent options.

Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Serving Suggestions:
Vegetable patties are delicious served hot, but they can also be a perfect snack for picnics or parties. How about pairing them with a glass of fresh lemonade or a refreshing fruit cocktail?

This vegetable patties recipe is not only simple but also full of colors and flavors, ideal for bringing a touch of joy to your meals. Prepare them with love and enjoy every bite!