Broccoli Poppers
Craving a fun and tasty snack? Try our Broccoli Poppers! These crispy bites are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Food Processor
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli, florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs, plain
- 1/2 cup Panko (Japanese bread crumbs)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Place broccoli florets in a food processor. Pulse them until they are finely chopped into tiny pieces. You can also achieve this by chopping with a knife, but the food processor speeds up the process.
- Next, steam the chopped broccoli for about two to three minutes until it becomes tender. Be careful not to overcook; you want it to retain its vibrant green color and crunch.
- Once steamed, it's time to remove the excess water. Using a clean kitchen towel, press down on the broccoli to squeeze out any liquid. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture!
- Transfer the drained broccoli to a mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and the egg. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Now, it’s time to incorporate the bread crumbs. Add the plain bread crumbs to the mixture and stir well. This will help bind the ingredients together and give the poppers structure.
- Take a tablespoon-sized amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Be sure to pack it tightly so that it holds its shape while cooking.
- Once all the mixture is shaped, roll each ball in the Panko breadcrumbs. This will create a delightful, crispy coating on the outside.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray. Place the breaded poppers on the sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Bake the Broccoli Poppers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten to fifteen minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and fun snack!
Notes
To make the most out of your Broccoli Poppers, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Storage: Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the raw poppers before cooking. Place them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: These poppers pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, aioli, or even a spicy sriracha sauce for an extra kick!
- Variations: Experiment with different cheeses or spices. Adding diced jalapeños can add a nice heat, while switching to mozzarella will give you a different flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Panko: For that ultimate crunch, using Panko breadcrumbs is essential. They are lighter and crispier than regular crumbs.
- Health Benefits: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, like grated carrots or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.