Egg and potato balls are a nutritious and ideal meal for Suhoor during Ramadan, providing the body with the necessary energy and protein for fasting. This recipe includes eggs, a rich source of protein and vitamin B12, which is essential for brain function, while potatoes provide carbohydrates that offer long-lasting energy. Onions boost immunity, and garlic helps improve blood circulation. However, it is advisable not to overconsume them to avoid excess calories from frying.

Crispy Egg and Potato Balls – An Easy and Delicious Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried coriander
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Oil for frying

Healthy Ingredient Alternatives

To make this recipe healthier, you can make some modifications, such as:

• Using oat flour instead of white flour to enhance nutritional value and increase fiber.
• Baking the balls instead of frying them to reduce fat and calorie content.
• Using olive oil instead of traditional vegetable oil for healthier fats.
• Replacing whole eggs with egg whites only to reduce cholesterol levels.

Preparation Method:

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Peel the potatoes using a knife or a vegetable peeler, then rinse them again to ensure cleanliness.
3. Using a medium-hole grater, grate the potatoes directly into a large bowl.
4. After grating, place the potatoes in a strainer and press them well with a spoon to extract as much water as possible. For better results, you can also use a clean cloth to squeeze out excess moisture.

Step 2: Preparing the Other Ingredients

1. Peel and wash the onion, then grate it using the same grater used for the potatoes.
2. Place the grated onion in a small strainer and press it to remove excess moisture to prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.
3. Add the grated onion to the bowl of grated potatoes.
4. Wash the parsley well, finely chop it, and add it to the potato-onion mixture.
5. Peel the garlic cloves, mince them well using the flat side of a knife or a grater, then add them to the mixture.

Step 3: Preparing the Egg and Spice Mixture

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs using a fork or a hand whisk until well combined.
2. Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried coriander to the beaten eggs, then whisk well to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Adding the Flour and Cornstarch

1. Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
2. Add the cornstarch in the same gradual manner until the mixture is fully combined.

Step 5: Mixing All Ingredients Together

1. Pour the egg and spice mixture over the potato-onion mixture.
2. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix all the ingredients until you achieve a firm, moldable consistency.

Step 6: Frying the Egg and Potato Balls

1. Heat a sufficient amount of oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before frying by testing it with a small drop of the mixture—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
2. Using a spoon, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or small patties with your hands.
3. Carefully place the balls in the hot oil to avoid splattering.
4. Let the balls fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 7: Serving

Serve the egg and potato balls hot with garlic sauce, ketchup, or any dip of your choice. They can be enjoyed as a light Suhoor meal or as a side dish for breakfast.

💡 Additional Tip: If you want to reduce fat content, you can bake the egg and potato balls in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (frying) or 25 minutes (baking)
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Egg and potato balls can be served in various delicious and creative ways, such as:

• Serving them with a side salad made of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a yogurt-lemon dressing.
• Placing them in a sandwich with Arabic bread or burger buns along with tomato slices and lettuce.
• Serving them as an appetizer alongside main dishes like grilled chicken or rice.
• Enjoying them with hummus or baba ghanoush as a tasty dip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boiled potatoes instead of grated ones?
Yes, boiled potatoes can be used, but they will make the balls softer. Therefore, it's recommended to increase the amount of flour or starch to maintain the desired consistency.

Can egg and potato balls be baked instead of fried?
Yes, they can be baked in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden. They can also be cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil.

What is the best way to store egg and potato balls?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to a month. It’s best to reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes instead of using a microwave to maintain their crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for children, but it is recommended to reduce the amount of spicy seasonings to make it more kid-friendly.

Can the mixture be prepared in advance?
It’s best to prepare the mixture fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before shaping and cooking to preserve the flavor and texture of the ingredients.

What sauces can be served with egg and potato balls?
They can be served with a variety of sauces, such as:

• Garlic mayo sauce
• Yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic
• Ketchup or mayonnaise
• Hot sauce (for those who enjoy strong flavors)

What are healthy alternatives to white flour?
Healthy substitutes include:

• Oat flour: Adds dietary fiber and enhances satiety.
• Almond flour: A low-carb option rich in healthy fats.
• Chickpea flour: Provides a firm texture and high nutritional value.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Ingredients

Potatoes (100g)

• Calories: 77
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Fiber: 2.2g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin C: 19.7mg (22% of daily requirement)
  • Potassium: 429mg (12% of daily requirement)
• Benefits: Potatoes are a rich source of energy, promote digestive health due to their fiber content, and support heart health thanks to their potassium levels.

Egg (1 medium egg)

• Calories: 68
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin B12: 0.6mcg (25% of daily requirement)
  • Vitamin D: 1mcg (10% of daily requirement)
• Benefits: Eggs are rich in high-quality protein, support bone health, and enhance brain function.

Onion (100g)

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin C: 7.4mg (8% of daily requirement)
  • Folate: 19mcg (5% of daily requirement)
• Benefits: Onions are a natural anti-inflammatory, boost immunity, and improve heart health.

Garlic (1 medium clove)

• Calories: 4
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0.2g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin C: 1mg (1% of daily requirement)
  • Manganese: 2% of daily requirement
• Benefits: Garlic helps lower blood pressure, boosts immunity, and improves circulation.

Parsley (10g)

• Calories: 4
• Carbohydrates: 0.8g
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin K: 164mcg (136% of daily requirement)
  • Vitamin C: 10mg (11% of daily requirement)
• Benefits: Parsley is rich in antioxidants, supports bone health, and strengthens the immune system.

Flour (10g)

• Calories: 36
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 1g
• Benefits: Provides energy and serves as a source of complex carbohydrates that enhance satiety.

Oil (1 tablespoon - 14g)

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated fat: 2g
• Benefits: Oil is a source of energy, but it's recommended to use healthy oils such as olive oil to reduce unhealthy fats.