Easy Cauliflower Patties Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Cauliflower patties are the perfect solution for anyone craving a light, filling meal that’s both crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. These easy-to-make patties are delicious and incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any diet or meal occasion.

Whether serving them as a snack, a side dish, or a main course, cauliflower patties deliver flavor and nutrition. With cauliflower’s many health benefits, these patties are an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, cauliflower is an excellent low-calorie choice that promotes overall health, digestion, and immune function. This cauliflower recipe also provides a delicious and creative twist on the classic cauliflower pancake, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cauliflower Patties

To create the ideal cauliflower patty, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized cauliflower head – Fresh cauliflower works best for this recipe, giving you the perfect texture for the patties.
• 2 eggs – These will help bind the mixture together, creating a fluffy, moist interior.
• 100 g flour / ½ cup flour – All-purpose flour provides the right texture to hold the patty together, though you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1-1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs – Panko breadcrumbs add the perfect crispiness to the exterior of the patties.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (optional) – For added richness and flavor, parmesan can be mixed into the batter, giving the patties a slightly savory, cheesy taste.
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper – A pinch of black pepper enhances the flavor and adds a mild kick to the patties.
• 1 tsp salt – This will help season the cauliflower and bring out its natural flavors.
• 1-1/2 cups oil for frying – Use vegetable oil or olive oil to fry the patties. The oil will create that golden, crispy exterior.
• 3 cups of water for boiling – This will be used to soften the cauliflower during the initial cooking phase.

How to Make the Perfect Cauliflower Patties

Creating the perfect cauliflower patties requires careful preparation, but the process is straightforward and rewarding.

Preparing the Cauliflower

Start by removing the leaves from the cauliflower and cutting the head into smaller florets. Then, chop the florets into even, bite-sized pieces, making it easier for them to cook uniformly. This step ensures that every bite of your cauliflower patty has the right texture.

Cooking the Cauliflower

Boil the cauliflower pieces in 3 cups of water with half of the salt for about 15 minutes. This will soften the cauliflower and make it easier to mash into the perfect patty consistency. Once the cauliflower is tender, drain it thoroughly. It’s essential to remove as much water as possible, as excess moisture can prevent the patties from achieving that desired crispy texture. Let the cauliflower sit for a few minutes to cool.

Mixing the Ingredients

Once the cauliflower is cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining salt, black pepper, eggs, parmesan (if using), flour, and ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs. Using a fork or potato masher, mash the mixture until smooth. The goal is to break down the cauliflower into a mushy consistency, with just a few chunks left for texture. Let the mixture sit for about 4 minutes to firm up before forming the patties.

Forming and Coating the Patties

Shape the cauliflower mixture into patties that are about the size of a mandarin orange. Once shaped, dip each patty into the remaining panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This breadcrumb coating will give the patties a crispy, golden-brown texture when fried.

Frying the Patties

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

Cook’s Note

For added flavor, consider adding shredded cheese, finely chopped shallots, or roasted red peppers to the mixture. These ingredients will give your cauliflower patties an extra layer of taste and texture. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a mixture of coconut flour and tapioca flour in equal parts. This will ensure the patties stay together while keeping them gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Cauliflower Patties

Cauliflower patties can be served in many ways, depending on your mood or mealtime needs.

• As a light vegetarian meal, Serve with avocado or a tangy dill mayo for a creamy, satisfying meal. Pair with a side salad to add freshness and crunch.
• As a side dish, Cauliflower patties make a fantastic accompaniment to proteins like chicken, salmon, or turkey. Their crispy exterior and soft interior complement these dishes beautifully.
• As a snack, Enjoy your cauliflower patties with a yogurt-based sauce, ranch, or mustard. Ketchup also works wonders for dipping, adding a zesty contrast to the savory patties.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Cauliflower Patties Every Time

Achieving that ideal crispy exterior while keeping the inside light and fluffy can sometimes be tricky, but these tips will ensure perfect results every time:

• Pat the cooked cauliflower dry: After boiling the cauliflower, ensure it’s as dry as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients. Excess moisture can prevent the patties from crisping up properly.
• Use a food processor: For an even, well-bound mixture, using a food processor can help to chop and combine the cauliflower and ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Use a large non-stick pan: This helps to evenly cook the patties and prevents them from sticking.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Fry the patties in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy without steaming.
• Serve hot: The best time to enjoy cauliflower patties is right after they’re cooked when they are at their crispiest.
• Refrigerate leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a hot skillet to bring back the crispy texture.
• Do not freeze: These patties do not freeze well, as they lose their texture once thawed.

More Vegan Cauliflower Recipes

If you love cauliflower, here are more recipes to try:

• Butter Cauliflower – A rich, creamy curry featuring tender cauliflower in a buttery, spiced sauce.
• Oven-Roasted Cauliflower Steak – Thick slices of cauliflower roasted with seasonings for a hearty, savory meal.
• Cauliflower Cheese – A comforting, cheesy dish with roasted cauliflower smothered in a creamy sauce.
• Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower – Cauliflower florets coated in a crispy parmesan crust and roasted to perfection.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower – Roasted cauliflower with a garlic and parmesan coating for extra flavor.

Variations of Cauliflower Patties You’ll Love

There are endless ways to customize your cauliflower patties to suit your taste:

• Add-ins for extra flavor: Stir in cheese, fresh herbs, or spices like cumin, paprika, or thyme to give your patties a unique twist.
• Vegan cauliflower patties: Use flax eggs or aquafaba instead of traditional eggs, and substitute almond flour or chickpea flour to make the recipe fully plant-based.
• Mini patties: Shape the mixture into mini patties for a perfect appetizer or party platter option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What brings out the flavor of cauliflower?

Roasting or sautéing cauliflower helps concentrate its flavor, making it sweeter and more nutty. Adding garlic, lemon, or herbs also enhances the taste.

Why do you soak cauliflower before cooking?

Soaking cauliflower before cooking helps to remove any residual dirt or pesticides, ensuring it’s clean and ready to cook.

Should cauliflower be boiled before cooking?

Boiling cauliflower is typically done to soften it, making it easier to mash or incorporate into dishes like cauliflower patties.

How to make yummy cauliflower?

The key to making delicious cauliflower is to season it well and cook it properly, either by roasting, frying, or sautéing, which caramelizes the natural sugars.

Conclusion

Cauliflower patties are a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, they make the perfect snack, side dish, or light main course. The health benefits of cauliflower—combined with the ease of preparation—make this cauliflower patties recipe one you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a flavorful appetizer, these cauliflower patties are sure to satisfy. So, grab your cauliflower and get cooking—you’re just a few steps away from a deliciously healthy meal!