Cauliflower Patties

Cauliflower patties are a versatile and tasty dish that can be adapted for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Here is a simple and quick recipe to prepare delicious Italian-style cauliflower patties.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower
  • 1 egg (or vegan substitute like ground flaxseed mixed with water)
  • 2-3 tablespoons of grated cheese (parmesan or pecorino, or a vegan alternative)
  • Breadcrumbs, enough to obtain a moldable mixture
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, to taste
  • 1 clove of garlic, chopped (optional)
  • Oil for frying or for baking

Preparation

  1. Clean the cauliflower, divide it into florets and cook them in boiling salted water until they are tender but not falling apart.
  2. Drain the florets from the water and let them cool. When they reach room temperature, finely chop them with a knife or use a food processor.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the chopped cauliflower with the egg (or substitute), grated cheese, parsley, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper until you get a homogeneous mixture.
  4. Add the breadcrumbs a little at a time until the dough becomes solid enough to form into patties. If the mixture is too moist, add more breadcrumbs.
  5. Shape the patties with your hands and, if you want a lighter cuisine, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking, until they become golden and crispy.
  6. Alternatively, for a more traditional version, you can fry the patties in plentiful oil until they are golden and crispy on all sides.

Curiosity

Cauliflower patties can be a great way to get children to eat vegetables or to make a vegetable-based dish more interesting. Cauliflower is a very versatile vegetable and rich in nutrients, and is also a good source of fiber. In Italy, cauliflower is used in many preparations, from soups to salads, and in this case as the base for inviting vegetarian patties.

Serve the cauliflower patties hot, perhaps with a fresh tomato sauce or accompanied by light side dishes. Enjoy your meal!