Fried zucchini and meatball patties
Description
The dish is prepared without unnecessary complications. I regularly make zucchini cutlets every summer. All my family members really like them. The dish turns out to be very economical, light, and thanks to the minced meat, also filling. You don't have to limit yourself to just zucchini—you can add chopped sweet pepper, onion, carrot, or cauliflower (just make sure to squeeze out the juice from the latter). By the way, cutlets made with half zucchini and half eggplant are especially delicious. In general, feel free to try, experiment, and enjoy the results of your creations. The finished dish can be served at the table.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
Prepare all the necessary ingredients. Choose a small zucchini, no longer than 20 cm, with green skin.
- 2
Step 2
Cut the zucchini into random pieces and place them into the blender jar. I don't peel the skin, but you can do so if desired, especially if it's white and rather tough.
- 3
Step 3
Grate the zucchini until it reaches a completely uniform consistency. Of course, you can use a grater, but a food processor is easier and faster. Transfer the grated zucchini into a fine sieve and let it sit for 30 minutes, then squeeze it by hand to remove excess liquid.
- 4
Step 4
Mix the zucchini with the ground meat, eggs, semolina, and half of the breadcrumbs; add salt and pepper to taste.
- 5
Step 5
Mix the mixture thoroughly until smooth. Note that it will still be slightly runny at this stage—do not rush to add more flour or breadcrumbs. Let the mixture stand for 15–20 minutes to allow the semolina to swell, then mix again. If the zucchini mixture is still too runny, feel free to add a bit more breadcrumbs or flour.
- 6
Step 6
Transfer the remaining breadcrumbs to a small dry plate. Shape small patties from the zucchini mixture and dip both sides into the breadcrumbs. Of course, the zucchini mixture is somewhat softer than regular meat filling, but after coating in breadcrumbs, the patties hold their shape well.
- 7
Step 7
Fry the patties in a small amount of vegetable oil on both sides until golden brown.
- 8
Step 8
Zucchini and meatball patties are ready! Serve with any side dish—mashed potatoes, cereals, or pasta.