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Cheesy Cauliflower Patties

Cheesy Cauliflower Patties
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Cheesy Cauliflower Patties are a nutritious, delicious, and versatile snack or appetizer that combine the wholesome goodness of cauliflower with melty cheese, herbs, and spices. These patties offer a perfect balance of crispy outside texture and tender inside, are easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and suitable for gluten-free diets. Enjoy them freshly cooked or make ahead and freeze for quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 medium cauliflower head (about 4 cups), steamed and pulsed into crumbs
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely grated carrot or zucchini for extra veggies

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Breading and Binders

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs or gluten-free alternative (almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (or flaxseed meal substitute for vegan version)

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (plus extra for garnish)
  • Optional: fresh dill, cilantro, or basil for additional flavor

Optional Spicy Variation

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Cooking Oil

  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (for frying, e.g., olive oil or vegetable oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Steam or microwave the cauliflower until tender. Allow it to cool, then pulse it in a food processor or grate finely to create a rice-like texture. Squeeze out excess moisture using a kitchen towel to prevent soggy patties.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower crumbs with shredded cheddar and mozzarella, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, chopped herbs, and optional spicy ingredients. Stir well until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture feels sticky enough to shape.
  3. Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into small, flat rounds about 2 to 3 inches in diameter using your hands or a scoop. For best results, refrigerate the shaped patties for 15-30 minutes to enhance firmness and reduce crumbling.
  4. Cook the Patties: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Avoid overcrowding the pan and cook in batches if needed.
  5. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve immediately or with garnishes such as fresh herbs, a drizzle of yogurt sauce, or smoked paprika.

Notes

  • Remove excess moisture from cauliflower thoroughly to prevent soggy patties.
  • Use sharp cheese to boost the flavor.
  • Chill patties before cooking to help them hold shape.
  • Cook patties in batches to ensure even browning.
  • Adjust seasonings by tasting the mixture before shaping.
  • These patties can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier option.
  • Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan version.
  • Use gluten-free breading alternatives for gluten-free diets.
  • Store cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy cauliflower patties, cauliflower snack, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free snack, healthy patties, cheesy vegetable patties

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/cheesy-cauliflower-patties/