Introduction
Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites are a mouthwatering, crispy snack or side dish that combines the rich flavor of melted cheese with the health benefits of broccoli. This recipe takes the humble broccoli and transforms it into a savory, cheesy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a fun snack. The golden crispy exterior combined with the tender interior and cheesy flavor is sure to delight anyone who tries it. These bites are an excellent way to get both kids and adults to enjoy more vegetables while satisfying their craving for something indulgent.
The History of
Broccoli has been a part of the human diet for centuries, dating back to the Roman Empire where it was cultivated and consumed regularly. While the idea of frying vegetables might not be ancient, the concept of crispy fried foods has been around for generations. Cheesy fried snacks, like fried cheese balls or croquettes, are popular in many cuisines. The fusion of broccoli and cheese in this recipe is a natural one, as cheese has long been a pairing for vegetables, adding richness and flavor to their natural taste. The modern version of these cheesy fried broccoli bites became popular as people started seeking fun, creative ways to make vegetables more appealing.
Ingredients Breakdown
For this recipe, you’ll need fresh broccoli florets, which are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish both delicious and nutritious. The cheese plays a crucial role, contributing to the rich, melty interior that complements the crisp exterior. You’ll also need eggs to help bind everything together and breadcrumbs to create that satisfying crunch when fried. For seasoning, simple ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder bring out the flavor without overpowering the broccoli. The choice of oil for frying is important as well – vegetable oil is commonly used due to its high smoke point, but other oils such as canola or peanut oil can also work.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Begin by steaming or blanching the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still firm enough to hold together when mixed with the other ingredients. Afterward, chop the broccoli into smaller pieces. Next, combine the chopped broccoli with cheese, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and beaten eggs in a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined, and it can hold together when shaped into small bites. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and set them aside.
Heat the oil in a deep skillet or fryer. Once the oil reaches the proper temperature, carefully fry the broccoli bites until golden brown and crispy, usually about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the size. Once fried, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Tips for the Perfect
To ensure your Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites come out perfectly crispy and cheesy, be sure not to overcook the broccoli when steaming or blanching. The broccoli should remain firm and not overly soft. For an extra crispy crust, consider double coating the bites in breadcrumbs – first in plain breadcrumbs, then in seasoned or panko breadcrumbs. Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the bites cook evenly and don’t absorb too much oil. If you don’t have a deep fryer, a regular skillet or a large pan with enough oil to submerge the bites halfway will work perfectly fine. Lastly, don’t skip the resting time on paper towels after frying to avoid sogginess.
Variations and Customizations
If you’re looking to mix things up, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could also add cooked bacon or sausage crumbles for extra flavor. For a healthier alternative, you can bake the broccoli bites instead of frying them. Simply coat them in a light layer of oil and bake them on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy. You could also try incorporating herbs like parsley or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for additional flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and important antioxidants. When paired with cheese, it also provides a good source of protein and calcium. While these bites are fried, you can make them a bit healthier by opting for a lower-fat cheese or using an air fryer to cut down on oil. It’s important to note that while these bites are a tasty and healthier alternative to many other fried snacks, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to the frying process, which adds extra calories. For a lighter version, you can bake or air fry the bites, which will reduce the amount of oil absorbed.
FAQ
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Simply place the shaped bites on a greased baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using. Frozen broccoli may be a bit softer, so it’s important to press out any excess moisture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, parmesan, and pepper jack are great alternatives to cheddar, each adding its own unique flavor to the bites.
Can I freeze these bites for later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked bites. Once they’re shaped, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for storage. You can fry them directly from the freezer, just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites
Ingredients
- 1½ cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 4 oz. Velveeta cut into small cubes
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2¼ cups Panko breadcrumbs divided
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- Vegetable or canola oil
Instructions
- Steam the broccoli until tender, then allow it to cool slightly.
- Finely chop the cooled broccoli and transfer it to a medium or large bowl.
- Add the cheese, red pepper flakes, some of the Panko breadcrumbs, and one beaten egg. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into balls.
- Refrigerate the balls for an hour to help them set.
- Set up three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the remaining Panko breadcrumbs for coating.
- Heat the oil to 375°F in a large skillet, using a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Dredge each ball in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Carefully place the coated balls in the hot oil and fry for a few minutes on each side, cooking in batches to ensure enough space between each ball.
- Once the breading is golden brown on all sides, transfer the balls to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Serve warm.
