Golden pumpkin nuggets with warm spices, crisp texture, and festive flavor. Ideal for snacks or appetizers.
# Components:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and grated
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Binders & Fillers
04 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
05 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 large egg, lightly beaten
→ Spices & Seasonings
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ For Frying
12 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
13 - Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
# Directions:
01 - Place grated pumpkin in a clean kitchen towel and firmly squeeze out any excess moisture.
02 - In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, cumin, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until thoroughly incorporated and the mixture holds together.
03 - Portion the mixture into small, even-sized nuggets, using about 1 tablespoon per nugget.
04 - Roll each formed nugget in panko breadcrumbs to ensure an even coating on all sides.
05 - Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat.
06 - Fry the nuggets in batches, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
07 - Transfer cooked nuggets to paper towels using a slotted spoon to drain excess oil, then serve warm.
