Zucchini and Potato Patties

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 15 minutes

Total Time:

• 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchini
• Salt
• 2 yams (sweet potatoes)
• 1 onion
• 1 carrot
• A sprig of parsley
• 2 eggs
• Black pepper
• 3 teaspoons of breadcrumbs
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini:

1. Shred the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini into a bowl. This will provide the moisture and base for your patties.
2. Salt and Settle: Sprinkle the grated zucchini with a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, ensuring your patties hold together well.
3. Eliminate Extra Water: After 10 minutes, squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini using your hands or a clean towel. Removing this moisture is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your patties.

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Peel and Grate: Peel the yams and grate them into a bowl. The starch from the potatoes enhances the patties’ texture.
2. Stop Browning: Submerge the shredded potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning and reduce some of the starch, which helps minimize stickiness.
3. Rinse and Squeeze: After a few minutes, rinse the potatoes and squeeze out any excess moisture. Like the zucchini, the potatoes need to be dried out for the right texture.

Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion to add a rich depth of flavor to the patties.
2. Grate the Carrot: Grate the carrot to add a bright color and a touch of sweetness to the mixture.

Combine Ingredients:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared zucchini, potatoes, onion, and carrot.
2. Chop the parsley finely and add it to the mixture.
3. Add the eggs, a pinch of salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs and a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese until well combined.

Cook the Patties:

1. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Form the mixture into small patties and place them in the hot skillet.
3. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serve the zucchini and potato patties warm, and enjoy!