Cauliflower Meatballs: A Delicious Alternative to Meat
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Fritters:
- 500 g (1.1 lbs) cauliflower, finely chopped
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Some breadcrumbs
- Thyme, to taste
- Sour cream, for serving
For the Homemade Dip:
- 400 g (14 oz) low-fat quark
- 200 g (7 oz) crème fraîche or sour cream
- 1 pack of herbs (frozen 8 herbs)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or pressed
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 250 per serving
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Fritters
- Cook Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets. Cook in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Chop Cauliflower: Finely chop the cooked cauliflower with a magic wand (immersion blender) or mash it with a fork, ensuring it’s not too fine.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped cauliflower with the grated cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Gradually add breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to swell.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs. Optionally, add finely diced onions to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Fry Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Homemade Dip
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the low-fat quark, crème fraîche or sour cream, herbs, garlic, onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve Meatballs: Serve the cauliflower meatballs hot, accompanied by the homemade dip. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or remoulade, if desired.
- Accompany with Salad: Pair with a green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Storage Notes
- Refrigerator: Store leftover cauliflower meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy these delicious and healthy cauliflower meatballs as a great alternative to traditional meatballs. They are perfect for a light meal or as a snack, offering a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.