Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re preparing a delicious and nutritious dish: Millet and Spinach Patties. These patties are packed with wholesome ingredients like millet, spinach, and herbs, making them a perfect option for a light lunch or dinner. Let’s get started on this flavorful and satisfying recipe!

Ingredients:

• For the Millet:
  • 1 cup millet
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Spinach Patties:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free option)
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for frying

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed millet and salt.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the millet is tender.
   • Fluff the millet with a fork and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked millet, cooked spinach mixture, grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped dill, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Form Patties:
   • Place the flour on a shallow plate or bowl.
   • Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into a patty using your hands. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
   • Coat each patty lightly with flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Cook the Patties:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat or spray with cooking spray.
   • Cook the patties in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the Millet and Spinach Patties warm.
   • Enjoy them as a main dish with a side salad, or as a tasty veggie burger alternative with your favorite condiments.

Tips and Variations:

• Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before cooking. Cook as directed when ready to serve.
• Freezing: Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

These Millet and Spinach Patties are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy millet and spinach together. They are versatile, easy to make, and can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Enjoy making and savoring these flavorful patties!