Southwest Quinoa Patties
Quinoa, although it’s technically not a grain, can be a healthier gluten-free alternative to rice and wheat flour (using quinoa flour). With quinoa, you can be very creative with it and create your own quinoa recipes because of its versatility. It can be used in both savory dishes and sweet foods and pastries. These quinoa patties are delicious served as a vegetarian entree but would also make a yummy veggie burger or a nice base for a fried egg for brunch or breakfast. So many easy recipes can be concieved from quinoa. And this is just one of them. Southwest Quinoa Patties with Avocado Sauce Ingredients For Quinoa Patties 2 1/2 cups cooked quinoa, chilled (if quinoa is warm, it doesn’t bind as well, thx MC!) 2 eggs 1/2 small onion, chopped 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped 1 1/4 cups black beans 2-3 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup cilantro leaves 1 tsp ground cumin 1/4- 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder (could probably use regular chili powder) 1/2 tsp salt 2/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or monterrey jack) 1 Tbsp refined coconut oil, vegetable oil or butter, divided For Avocado-Lime Sauce 1 avocado, coarsely chopped juice from one lime 2 tbsp cilantro salt and pepper to taste water to thin (I like the tartness and citrus flavor of the sauce but if you prefer a sweeter version, you could add a little bit of honey or stevia)
Directions 1. In a food processor add 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa and ingredients eggs through salt. Combine for 15 seconds or well incorporated. 2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the quinoa-bean mixture along with the remaining 1 cup of cooked quinoa and shredded cheese. Stir to combine and refrigerate for 20 minutes. 3. While quinoa mixture is chilling, prepare avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, add all ingredients avocado through water, starting with 1/3 cup water and add 1 Tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached. I added about 1/2 cup for a slightly thick sauce that is spreadable, add more or less to your preference. Set aside. 4.
In a large skillet*, heat 1/2 tbsp oil or butter over medium heat (oil is divided since you will be cooking in 2 batches). Meanwhile, form 12 patties about a 1/2 in thick (I used a 1/4 measuring cup to divide mixture up evenly, then slightly flatten). Cook for about 6-9 minutes on each side or until browned and a crust is formed. Using a spatula, carefully flip over and cook an additional 6-9 minutes or until browned. Heat remaining 1/2 Tbsp oil or butter in pan and cook remaining patties for about 6-9 minutes on each side or until golden crust is formed. Serve with avocado sauce and enjoy!
*If you do not have a large enough skillet to hold 6 patties, divide oil up evenly and cook in 3 batches (4 at a time instead of 6 patties in the pan).