
Broccoli Bites Recipe: A Delectable and Nutritious Snack
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack that you can enjoy any time of the day? Look no further! Broccoli bites are the perfect solution. These crispy, flavorful morsels are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. In this article, I will guide you through the process of creating your own broccoli bites, from selecting the right ingredients to the final step of enjoying your snack. Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Broccoli
When it comes to making broccoli bites, the quality of the broccoli is crucial. Look for fresh, vibrant green broccoli with tight florets and a firm stem. Avoid any broccoli that appears wilted or has brown spots, as these may indicate that it’s past its prime. Fresh broccoli will ensure that your bites are both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your broccoli bites:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Broccoli | 1 head |
Butter | 2 tablespoons |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated |
Flour | 1/4 cup |
Egg | 1 |
Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
Olive oil | for frying |
Preparation
Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and peeling the stem. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that they are all roughly the same size for even cooking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until it’s tender but still crisp. Drain the broccoli and set it aside to cool.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic powder and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Set the mixture aside to cool.
Coating the Broccoli Bites
Preheat your oven to 200掳F (93掳C) to keep the broccoli bites warm while you finish the coating process. In a shallow dish, whisk the egg. In another shallow dish, combine the flour and Panko breadcrumbs. Dip each broccoli piece into the whisked egg, then coat it with the flour and Panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
Cooking the Broccoli Bites
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated broccoli bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked broccoli bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your broccoli bites as a standalone snack or serve them alongside your favorite dip, such as hummus or tzatziki. They are also a great addition to a charcuterie board or a game-day spread. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Now that you have all the information you need to make your own broccoli bites, it’s time to get cooking! These nutritious and delicious snacks are sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy snacking!