Potato balls with soy, peppers, and garlic sauce

Potato balls with soy, bell pepper, and garlic sauce

If you are looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that will delight your taste buds and add a splash of color to your table, potato balls with soy and bell pepper are the perfect choice. These little delights can be served hot or cold, making them ideal for a snack, appetizer, or even a light main course. The inspiration for this recipe comes from the desire to transform simple ingredients into delicious dishes bursting with textures and flavors.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg red potatoes, boiled in their skins
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g soy granules
- 1 Knorr vegetable cube
- 150 ml still water
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- A pinch of turmeric
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons oil (for mixing)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the balls)
- 1 head of garlic (for the sauce)
- Salt (for the sauce)
- Water (for the sauce)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, boil them in their skins in a pot of salted water for about 30 minutes, or until tender but not falling apart. This step is essential to ensure the right texture for your balls.

In the meantime, in another pot, add the soy granules and the Knorr cube, then cover with water. Boil for 10 minutes, drain, and reserve the water for later use in the mixture.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture
After the potatoes have boiled, peel them and grate them finely. It is important to use red potatoes, as they have a creamier texture, perfect for your balls. In the bowl with the potatoes, add the drained soy granules, finely chopped bell pepper, salt, pepper, turmeric, dried basil, garlic powder, the 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs, and the 150 ml of reserved water.

Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly distributed. You can add more garlic powder or spices according to your preferences.

Step 3: Forming and frying the balls
Heat the oil in a small pot, making sure the level is sufficient to cover your balls. Form the balls from the mixture, then roll them in breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy crust. Carefully place them in the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy on all sides. This step is essential for achieving a delicious texture, and the oil should be at the right temperature to avoid excessive oil absorption.

Once the balls are ready, remove them to a platter lined with absorbent towels to eliminate excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the garlic sauce
To complete this recipe, don't forget the garlic sauce! Peel the head of garlic, then crush it with a little salt. Gradually add still water, mixing constantly, until you achieve a creamy consistency, but not too liquid. This sauce will add an extra flavor to your balls.

Serving and suggestions
Serve the potato balls with garlic sauce on the side. They can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them ideal for a family snack or even at a party. I recommend pairing them with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete and healthy lunch.

Nutritional benefits
These balls are an excellent source of plant-based protein due to the soy granules, while the potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins. Garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and basil adds not only flavor but also antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of vegetables instead of bell pepper?
Yes, you can experiment with different vegetables, such as grated carrots, zucchini, or onion, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make these balls less greasy?
You can bake the balls instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 200°C, place the balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, and lightly brush them with oil before baking for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

3. Can I freeze them?
Yes, the balls can be frozen. Make sure to cool them completely before storing them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you want to consume them, you can fry them directly from the freezer.

Similar recipes
If you like these potato balls, I suggest trying the lentil meatballs or zucchini croquettes, each with its unique flavors and textures.

Useful tips
- Use medium-sized potatoes so they cook evenly.
- Ensure the balls are well-formed so they don’t fall apart during frying.
- Experiment with spices, adding chili or paprika for a spicier taste.

Enjoy your meal! These potato balls with soy and bell pepper, accompanied by garlic sauce, are an excellent choice for any occasion. I encourage you to prepare them and enjoy every bite!