Cabbage and Zucchini Cakes are a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and savory flavors that make for a satisfying meal. These cakes are easy to prepare and are perfect for any time of the day. The grated zucchini and finely chopped cabbage create a light yet flavorful base, while the green onion, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder add a delicious kick. The addition of mozzarella cheese gives these cakes a delightful, melty texture that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
- 300g zucchini, grated into small strips
- 250g cabbage, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt (for marinating zucchini)
- 20g green onion, finely chopped
- 1/6 tsp black pepper
- 1/5 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp salt (for seasoning)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 30g cornstarch
- 50g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Cooking oil for frying
Directions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- In a large bowl, mix the grated zucchini with 1/4 tsp salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out the excess moisture.
- After 10 minutes, squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial to ensure the cakes hold together during frying.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, finely chopped cabbage, and green onion.
- Add black pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, and the remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, cornstarch, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly to form a cohesive batter.
3. Shape and Fry the Cakes:
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying by dropping a small piece of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, flattening each to form small patties or cakes.
- Fry the patties until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
- Once cooked, transfer the cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cakes hot with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping.
- Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- These cakes also make a great addition to sandwiches or wraps.
Cooking Tips:
- Moisture Control: Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the cakes from becoming soggy.
- Cheese Options: For a different flavor, try using cheddar or feta cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Size Matters: Make the cakes small and uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetable-Packed: These cakes are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
- Protein-Rich: The eggs and cheese add a good source of protein to the dish.
- Fiber: Cabbage and zucchini are both high in fiber, which aids in digestion.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low Carb: Substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour for a lower carb option.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven before serving.
- Freezing: These cakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these cakes are quick to whip up.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or snack.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The melty cheese and savory spices make these cakes a hit with both kids and adults.
Conclusion:
Cabbage and Zucchini Cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal that’s packed with fresh vegetables. Whether you serve them as a main course or a side dish, these cakes are sure to become a favorite in your household. Their crispy exterior and flavorful interior make them a satisfying and versatile dish that everyone will love. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful taste and texture of these veggie-packed cakes!