Cabbage Patties

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups grated cabbage
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon bacon grease (or use cooking oil of your choice)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cabbage and finely chopped onion. Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the bowl, mixing everything together until well combined.

2. Add the Eggs:

Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the mixture, stirring until the ingredients are evenly coated and the mixture holds together.

3. Heat the Skillet:

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the bacon grease (or your preferred cooking oil). Allow it to melt and become hot.

4. Form and Fry the Patties:

Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the cabbage mixture into the hot skillet, flattening them slightly to form patties. Fry each patty for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

• Fresh Out of the Skillet: Cabbage patties are best enjoyed hot and crispy straight from the skillet. Serve them immediately for the best texture.
• Accompaniments: Pair the patties with a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They also go well with a side of applesauce for a sweet contrast.
• Garnishing: Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill for added color and flavor.
• Meal Pairing: Serve as a side dish with a main course such as grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They also work well as a light lunch or snack on their own.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cabbage patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture and keep the patties crisp.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the patties to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, freeze them in a single layer to prevent sticking.
• Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the patties soggy.
• Crisping Up: If reheating from frozen, it’s a good idea to cook them from frozen rather than thawing first to maintain their crispiness. Add a bit of extra oil to the skillet if needed.

Variations:

1. Cheesy Cabbage Patties:
Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, with the cabbage mixture. The cheese will melt and add a gooey, savory element to your patties.

2. Spicy Cabbage Patties:
Add a teaspoon of chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

3. Herb-Infused Patties:
Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro into the cabbage mixture. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and a fragrant aroma.

4. Bacon-Enhanced Patties:
For an extra savory touch, add 1/4 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture. The bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the cabbage nicely.

5. Asian-Style Patties:
Mix in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, and 1/2 cup of finely chopped scallions for an Asian-inspired twist. Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and a splash of sesame oil.

6. Vegetable Patties:
Incorporate other finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the mixture. This adds color and extra nutrients to your patties.

7. Vegan Cabbage Patties:
Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Use a vegan cooking oil instead of bacon grease.

8. Gluten-Free Patties:
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version of these patties.

9. Curry-Spiced Patties:
Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder or garam masala to the mixture for an Indian-inspired flavor. This adds a warm, aromatic spice to the patties.

10. Mediterranean Patties:
Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped olives and a teaspoon of dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping.

Feel free to mix and match these variations or come up with your own to make the cabbage patties uniquely yours!

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of cabbage such as Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage. Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor to the patties.

2. Can I make cabbage patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time. Shape the patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked patties and cook them from frozen.

3. How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The patties should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. They should feel firm to the touch and the edges should be slightly crispy. You can also cut one open to ensure that it is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.

4. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the patties. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

5. How do I store leftover cabbage patties?
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.

6. Can I freeze cabbage patties?
Yes, you can freeze cabbage patties. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness.

7. What can I use instead of bacon grease?
If you prefer not to use bacon grease, you can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or butter for frying the patties. Each option will slightly alter the flavor and richness of the patties.