The word ‘bitki’ has its origin from the Russian word ‘otbitki’, which means pounded or minced. It’s evolved over time with other European influences, to become pan-fried meat cutlets and patties using minced meat. I like how the recipe includes whisked whites because that helps to make the patties a lot more tender to chew on, and what gives it a nice texture and an umami taste too.
This recipe is rather easy to prepare in advance the night before. Just combine all the ingredients, then pan-fry it on the day you need to serve it with. Makes for a great snack or side dish anytime. Even better than commercial nuggets, I guarantee!
Ingredients:
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Flat mushroom: 100g, finely chopped
- Minced chicken: 350g
- Breadcrumb: 1 cup
- Egg yolk: 2
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground blackpepper: ½ tsp
- Egg white: 2
- Plain flour: ½ cup
- Oil: 3 tbsp
Method:
- Heat butter in pan. Fry mushrooms for 5min till soft and dry. Leave to cool.
- Combine chicken, breadcrumb, egg yolk, salt, blackpepper and cooked mushrooms.
- Whisk egg whites till stiff. Scoop half of whites into chicken mixture to slacken it.
- Using a metal spoon, fold remaining whites into mixture.
- Using wet hands, roll 12 medium-sized balls, then press down gently to form round patties.
- Coat with plain flour.
- Heat oil in pan. Fry patties on medium heat for 5-10min till golden brown, turning them over at least once.
- Serve warm with salad, egg mayonnaise or ketchup.
Disclaimer:
- This recipe was kindly adapted from the book ‘The Complete Book of Party Food and Appetizers‘.
Serving:
12 medium-sized patties
