Easy and Delicious Vegan Potato Patties
Introduction
Transform your simple potatoes into a delightful vegan dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly tasty. These potato patties are perfect for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a main course when paired with a fresh salad. This recipe ensures you can enjoy all the classic flavors and textures without any animal products.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 6 medium-sized (800 g)
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Nutritional Yeast: 1/4 cup, for a cheesy flavor
- Dairy-Free Cheddar Cheese: 150 g, grated
- Parsley: 1 pinch, finely chopped
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (8 g)
For Coating:
- Flax Egg: 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, gluten-free if needed
For Frying:
- Vegetable Oil: Enough for shallow frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and washing the potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into chunks and place them in a pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
To the mashed potatoes, add the cornstarch, nutritional yeast, grated dairy-free cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and salt. These ingredients will add flavor and help bind the patties.
4. Mix Thoroughly
Using a spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be cohesive and hold together when formed into patties.
5. Prepare the Flax Egg
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This flax egg will act as a binder in place of a regular egg.
6. Form the Patties
Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making sure all patties are of equal size for even cooking. Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Coat the Patties
Dip each patty into the flax egg mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Then, roll the patty in breadcrumbs until fully covered. This will give the patties a crispy exterior when fried.
8. Preheat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a breadcrumb is dropped in but not smoking.
9. Fry the Patties
Carefully place the coated patties in the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the patties and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
10. Serve
Once all the patties are fried, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as vegan aioli or a tangy tomato relish.
Nutritional Information (per patty, based on 12 patties):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Sodium: 200mg
Tips for Success
- Consistent Size: Ensure all patties are the same size for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the patties in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve a crisp exterior.
- Resting Time: Let the potato mixture cool slightly before forming patties to make them easier to handle.
Variations
- Spicy Patties: Add finely chopped jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Patties: Incorporate different herbs like dill, cilantro, or thyme for varied flavors.
- Baked Version: For a lower-fat option, bake the patties in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Salad: Serve the patties on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Wrap: Use the patties as a filling for a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer with an array of dipping sauces at your next gathering.
Health Benefits
Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. When prepared without excessive oil and paired with wholesome ingredients, they can be a healthy addition to any diet.
These vegan potato patties are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Their crispy exterior and flavorful interior make them a hit with both adults and kids. Enjoy them as a main dish, side dish, or even as a snack. With this detailed guide, you’ll master the art of making perfect potato patties every time.