Save Golden and crispy, these holiday snack pumpkin nuggets offer a festive twist that is sure to please every palate. Simple preparation and crowd-friendly flavors make them perfect for a gathering or as an afternoon treat.
I first made these crunchy pumpkin nuggets for a holiday party and they disappeared within minutes: the warm spices and crispy coating had everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin: 2 cups (about 300 g), peeled and grated
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (60 g) in mixture, plus extra for coating
- Parmesan cheese: 1/3 cup (40 g), grated
- Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (120 g), for coating
- Vegetable oil: For shallow frying
Instructions
- Prep the pumpkin:
- Place grated pumpkin on a kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, cumin, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until the mixture holds together.
- Shape nuggets:
- Form the mixture into small nuggets using about 1 tablespoon each.
- Coat with panko:
- Roll each nugget in panko breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
- Fry the nuggets:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry nuggets in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp: about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Drain and serve:
- Transfer cooked nuggets to paper towels. Serve warm for best texture.
Save My family loves gathering together for a movie night, and these pumpkin nuggets—served with a tangy yogurt dip—are now a cozy tradition we look forward to every season.
Required Tools
Large bowl, grater, kitchen towel, skillet, slotted spoon, paper towels
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 170 calories, 7 g fat, 21 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these nuggets with yogurt dip, spicy ketchup, or a fresh green salad for a complete snack platter.
Save Holiday snacking truly shines with these pumpkin nuggets: crispy, flavorful, and inviting. A guaranteed favorite at any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent soggy nuggets?
Squeeze excess moisture from grated pumpkin using a kitchen towel before mixing with other ingredients. This helps achieve a crisp texture.
- → Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway. They’ll be lighter but still crispy thanks to the panko coating.
- → What dips pair well?
These nuggets are delicious with yogurt-based dips, spicy ketchup, or herb sauces. Choose according to your personal preference.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative if needed for special diets.
- → How do I make these gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and panko to accommodate gluten-free guests or dietary restrictions.
- → Can I freeze these nuggets?
Yes, freeze formed (unfried) nuggets on a tray, transfer to a bag once solid, and cook straight from frozen for best results.