How to Fry Cauliflower Patties

Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

A perfectly fried cauliflower features a crisp exterior and a tender, almost creamy interior. Serve the patties on an appetizer tray as a quick snack, or turn them into a more substantial side or main dish. The mild flavor of cauliflower works well with most cheeses and seasonings, so you play around with a recipe until you find your favorite flavor combination. Heating the oil and skillet before you fry helps the patties retain their shape and cook quickly so they don't fall apart or become mushy.

Step 1

Combine cooked, mashed cauliflower with one egg and bread crumbs until the mixture is stiff enough to form into patties. Mix in cheese, salt and pepper, diced vegetables or the other seasonings of your choice.

Step 2

Coat a skillet with nonstick spray. Alternatively, brush on a thin coating of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil.

Step 3

Heat the pan over medium-high heat until it's hot and the oil sizzles slightly. Turn down the heat if the pan begins to smoke.

Step 4

Form the cauliflower mixture into 3-inch wide patties that are about 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick. Lay the patties in the hot pan, leaving 1 inch of space between each patty.

Step 5

Fry the patties for approximately three minutes, or until golden brown. Flip the patties with a spatula and fry the other side for about three minutes.

Step 6

Remove the patties from the pan and lay them on top of a paper towel. Drain the excess oil from the patties for about one minute before serving.