Crunchy Holiday Snack Pumpkin Nuggets (Printable)

Golden pumpkin nuggets, spiced and crispy, make festive appetizers or tasty snacks for gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 squeeze out the excess liquid thoroughly.
02 - Combine pumpkin, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, cumin, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until the mixture binds together.
03 - Shape the mixture into bite-sized nuggets using about 1 tablespoon for each.
04 - Roll each nugget in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
05 - Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach 1/2 inch depth. Heat over medium-high until shimmering.
06 - Fry nuggets in batches, turning periodically, for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
07 - Transfer fried nuggets to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick and easy snack for gatherings
  • Vegetarian and customizable for gluten-free diets
02 -
  • Can be baked instead of fried for a lighter option
  • Contains egg, milk, and gluten. Use dairy-free cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs for allergies
03 -
  • Add chili flakes or chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor
  • Squeeze pumpkin thoroughly to prevent soggy nuggets
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