Broccoli Cheese Patties are a savory, flavorful, and nutritious option that combines tender broccoli with melted cheese, making them a hit with both kids and adults. These patties are versatile; they can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Here’s a comprehensive recipe to make these delicious patties:
Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
For the Coating (optional):
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam or Boil: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. If boiling, cook until just tender, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- Chop Finely: Finely chop the cooked broccoli. You can use a food processor for a finer texture if preferred.
2. Make the Patty Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), egg, flour, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano (if using), and salt and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined and the mixture holds together. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more cheese or a splash of milk. If it’s too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
3. Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. You should get about 8-10 patties depending on size.
4. Coat the Patties (Optional):
- For a crispier exterior, coat the patties before frying. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each patty in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Cook the Patties:
- Fry: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches, cooking each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Bake (Optional): For a healthier option, you can bake the patties. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the broccoli cheese patties warm. They pair well with a dipping sauce like ranch or a simple garlic aioli. They can also be served as a side dish or a light meal with a salad.
Tips:
- Consistency: Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped so it blends well with the other ingredients and holds together during cooking.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, you can use a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer and vegan cheese.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Broccoli Cheese Patties are a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your diet in a tasty and appealing way. Enjoy them as a quick snack or a satisfying addition to your meal!