Zucchini Tater Tots Recipe – A Delicious Party Appetizer
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo), peeled and boiled | 3 medium |
| Green Zucchini, grated | 2 medium |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried Thyme Leaves | 1 tablespoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Cheddar Cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 40 minutes |
Servings:
Makes approximately 30 Tater Tots
Cuisine:
Continental
Course:
Appetizer
Dietary Type:
Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Boil the Potatoes:
- Begin by boiling the potatoes. Place them in a pressure cooker with about 1/4 cup of water. Cook for at least 4 whistles to ensure they are soft. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Once cooled, peel the potatoes and mash them in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and place it on a flat skillet over medium heat. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the moisture from the zucchini has evaporated. This step is crucial to ensure the tots remain firm and not soggy.
- After the zucchini is dry and slightly softened, transfer it to the bowl containing the mashed potatoes.
-
Season the Mixture:
- Sprinkle in the red chili flakes, dried oregano, thyme leaves, black pepper, and salt to taste. Add the grated cheddar cheese into the bowl as well.
- Using a spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive enough to hold its shape. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
-
Shape the Tots:
- Take small portions of the mixture and begin shaping them into rectangular tater tot shapes, similar to the size of traditional tots. You can also make them slightly larger for a more substantial appetizer.
-
Coat with Bread Crumbs:
- Once shaped, gently roll each tater tot in whole wheat bread crumbs to create an even coating. This will give them a crisp outer layer when fried.
-
Pan-Fry the Tater Tots:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a few drops of oil to coat the surface. Carefully place the tater tots in the pan, leaving space between them for even cooking.
- Fry the tots on all sides until they turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a crispy texture. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
-
Serve:
- Once all the tots are crispy and golden, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot on a platter, ready for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
For an extra burst of flavor, pair these Zucchini Tater Tots with a refreshing Cottage Cheese Dip with pepper and olives. You can also serve them as part of a larger spread alongside a Vegetarian Wrap with Olives and Cottage Cheese for a delicious and balanced appetizer platter at your next party!
This Zucchini Tater Tots Recipe is not just a great way to sneak in some veggies, but it also offers a crispy, cheesy treat perfect for party snacks or family gatherings. The blend of spices, tender potatoes, and fresh zucchini creates a delightful bite that will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy this appetizer alongside your favorite dips or wraps, and get ready to make it a regular feature in your snack rotation!
