Vegan Potato Cakes with Garlic and Kale

Kale and garlic vegan potato cakes are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a comforting dish packed with flavor. These crispy cakes have a golden exterior with a soft, savory inside, making them a perfect choice for a snack, side, or even a light meal. Plus, they’re easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, making this recipe great for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.

Not only are these potato cakes tasty, but they also include nutritious ingredients like kale and garlic, which add both flavor and health benefits. The recipe is naturally vegan, and with a few easy swaps, it can be made gluten-free too. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a new way to enjoy potatoes, these potato cakes are sure to become a favorite!

We peel it in our bones, you’re going to love this spud-tastic recipe!

• Potatoes – Form the base of the cakes, giving them structure and a soft, starchy texture. They also provide a mild flavor that balances the garlic and kale. Sweet potatoes add a sweeter taste, or you can use mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
• Kale – Adds a nutritious, leafy green element, offering texture and a slightly bitter flavor that complements the potatoes. Spinach is a milder alternative, or Swiss chard provides a similar hearty texture with a slightly different taste.
• Garlic – Gives the potato cakes a bold, savory flavor, making them more flavorful and aromatic. Try shallots for a milder, slightly sweet flavor or garlic powder for a quicker option.
• Almond Milk – Keeps the mixture moist and adds a creamy texture without using dairy. Try using oat milk, soy milk or homemade cashew milk for a similar creamy, dairy-free alternative.
• Parsley – Adds a bright, fresh flavor that helps balance the richness of the potatoes and garlic. How about using a little cilantro to give the cakes a more herbaceous, slightly tangy twist? Or you can use dill for a more unique, fresh flavor.
• Scallions – Bring a mild onion flavor that adds freshness without overpowering the other ingredients. Feel free to use chopped leeks or chives for a similar flavor, since they are a bit more delicate.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Step 1: Boil and Wilt – Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and return them to the pot. Add the kale and toss for about 5 minutes to wilt the leaves using the heat from the potatoes.

Step 2: Mash and Mix – Add almond milk, vegan butter, flour, garlic, onion powder, parsley, pepper, and salt to the pot. Mash the mixture with an immersion blender (or a regular blender) until mostly smooth, keeping some potato chunks for texture.

Then, Step 3: Shape the Patties – Shape the potato mixture into ¼-inch-thick patties using your hands. Place the patties on parchment paper to prepare for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Potato Cakes – Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Finally, Step 5: Serve and Garnish – Transfer the potato cakes to a plate, then top each with a dollop of vegan sour cream and sliced scallions. Enjoy warm!

How to Serve Up Your Vegan Potato Cakes

Wondering what to eat with your savory kale cakes? Fear not, dear diner! We’ve thought up some crave-able combos that will inspire you to change up your meal routine:

• Pile on the Protein – Perhaps you’d like a side of protein to go along with your cakes! Whether you go for some crispy tofu or roast up some chickpeas, you’ll be far from bored!
• Bring on the Burgers – Black bean burgers are a brilliant choice for serving with your garlic kale potato cakes! Imagine how delicious it would be to bite into one with a cake served on top! Mmmmm, count us in!
• Simply Salad – Salad is a smart and simple way to round out pretty much any meal. Grab some greens, chop some veggies, add some crunch, pour on some dressing (like this vibrant cilantro tahini dressing), and voila!