GOODNESS
Carrots: We all know that carrots are good for your eyes, but did you know they have anti-cancer properties as well? They have the nicely named carotenoids that are antioxidents -- chemicals that mop up the damage that results from ordinary metabolism. That, in turn, helps to keep your cells from turning rogue and hanging with the cancer gangs. If that's not enough to make you grab a carrot, they turn out to be immune-system stimulators as well, meaning you'll have fewer occasions to ask "What's up, doc?" Yes there's a little sugar in them, but also a lot of fiber to buffer it, so only the most sugar-restricted people should worry. By the way, the vitamin K in carrots is easier to absorb if you eat them with a bit of oil or fat, like a dip.

Ginger: This spicy root is known as the universal remedy. Although it's well-known as a stomach soother, it also improves circulation, fights tumors, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Oh, and it's good for pain and a fever. The only possible drawbacks are for people with gallstones or those on blood thinners.
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Recipe

Mashed Potato and Vegetable Patties with Ginger-Cilantro Chutney

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 385

ingredients

  • 2 (1 cup) russet potatoes
  •  ,
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs made from crustless French bread, divided
  • 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped peeled ginger
  • 1 serrano chile, stemmed, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  •  ,
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup (or more) vegetable oil
  •  ,
  • Ginger-cilantro chutney
  •  ,
  • Chaat masala* (optional)
  • Paprika
  •  ,
  • *Chaat masala is an Indian spice blend available at specialty foods stores and Indian markets.

directions

Place potatoes in medium saucepan. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain, cool.

Peel cooled potatoes, place in medium bowl, and mash. Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, carrots, and next 6 ingredients. Mix lightly (do not mash). Divide mixture into 12 portions, using about 1/4 cup for each. Shape each portion into ball, then press lightly to form patty about 2.5 inches in diameter. Do ahead Can be made 6 hours ahead. Transfer patties to large plate, cover, and chill.

Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Whisk eggs in medium bowl to blend. Place remaining 1 cup breadcrumbs on large plate. Coat patties first in egg, then in breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere. Transfer patties to clean large plate. Heat 1/3 cup oil in large skillet over medium heat. Working in 2 batches, cook patties until brown, about 5 minutes per side, adding more oil by tablespoonfuls as needed. Place patties on rimmed baking sheet. Transfer sheet to oven to keep patties warm.

Place 2 patties on each of 6 plates. Drizzle patties with Ginger-cilantro chutney, sprinkle with chaat masala, if desired, and paprika.