Quinoa Patties Recipe

Quinoa: A protein-rich grain that forms the base of the patties.

Bread crumbs: Helps bind the patties and adds a slight crunch.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the patties.

Eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.

Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.

Parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal note to the patties.

Olive oil: Used for frying the patties to a golden brown.

To ensure your quinoa patties hold together well and don't fall apart during cooking, make sure the quinoa is well-cooked and slightly cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps the eggs and bread crumbs bind the mixture more effectively. Additionally, when forming the patties, press them firmly to compact the ingredients, which will help them maintain their shape in the frying pan.

• cooked quinoa - Substitute with cooked bulgur wheat: Bulgur wheat has a similar texture and nutritional profile, making it a great alternative.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed oats: Crushed oats provide a similar binding effect and add a slightly different texture.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good option for those avoiding dairy.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoon water per egg) work well as a binder in vegan recipes.

• finely chopped small onion - Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in place of onions.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.

• chopped fresh parsley - Substitute with chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro offers a different but fresh and vibrant flavor profile.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying.

• Allow the quinoa patties to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the patties fresh and ready for a quick meal or snack.
• For longer storage, freeze the patties. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to eat, reheat the patties directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until warmed and crispy.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the patties lose their crispiness and become rubbery.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quinoa patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil to keep them moist. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the quinoa patties in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and have regained their crispy texture.

• Microwave Method: Place the quinoa patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the quinoa patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quinoa patties on the toaster oven tray and heat for 10-12 minutes, flipping once, until they are thoroughly warmed and crispy on the outside.

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious container to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the cooked quinoa and bread crumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities like the minced garlic and chopped parsley.

• Grater: Needed to grate the parmesan cheese finely.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the eggs until they are well combined.

• Chef's knife: Ideal for finely chopping the onion and parsley.

• Cutting board: A safe surface to chop the onion and parsley.

• Frying pan: Used to cook the patties until they are golden brown and crispy.

• Spatula: Helps in flipping the patties in the frying pan.

• Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the cooked patties.

• Plate: To place the cooked patties on before serving.

Pre-cook quinoa: Cook quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge. This saves time when you are ready to make the patties.

Use a food processor: Chop the onion and garlic in a food processor to save time and ensure uniform size.

Batch preparation: Form all the patties at once and place them on a tray. This makes the frying process quicker and more efficient.

Non-stick pan: Use a non-stick pan to reduce the amount of olive oil needed and make cleanup easier.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.