Ingredients
1 bag cauliflower rice: You can use store-bought or make your own by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until they reach a rice-like consistency.
2 flax eggs: To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
1/2 cup vegan cheese: Use your favorite vegan cheese; shredded works best.
1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds flavor and texture.
Seasoning to taste: Suggested seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cauliflower Rice
Drain the cauliflower rice: If using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure it is fully thawed and drained. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial to ensure the hash browns hold together and become crispy.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cauliflower rice, flax eggs, vegan cheese, chopped onion, and your chosen seasonings. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Forming the Hash Browns
Shape the Patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together. Aim for a size that is easy to flip and fits well on your baking sheet.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Baking the Hash Browns
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Patties: Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Bake for about 12 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Broiling and Frying
Broil for Crispiness: For extra crispiness, broil the hash browns for about 1 minute on each side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Optional Frying Step: For an even crispier texture, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly fry the baked hash browns for a minute or two on each side until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hot: Serve the hash browns immediately while they are hot and crispy. They pair well with a variety of dips such as vegan sour cream, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes approximately 8 servings):
Calories: 80
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 4g
Tips for Success
Removing Moisture: Ensuring the cauliflower rice is well-drained is key to achieving crispy hash browns. Excess moisture can prevent the patties from holding together and becoming crispy.
Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can also add herbs and spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Consistency: If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flaxseed meal or some breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
These vegan cauliflower hash browns are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional hash browns. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or even a light meal. With their crispy exterior and flavorful interior, they are sure to become a favorite in your vegan recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful taste and texture of these hash browns, and feel good about serving a nutritious dish to your family and friends. Happy cooking!
