Rashmi Sharma Broccoli Tots are a healthier, fun, and delicious twist on traditional tater tots, packed with the goodness of broccoli and a crispy coating. These little bites are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and they are a great way to get kids (and adults!) to enjoy their vegetables. The broccoli is finely chopped and mixed with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then baked or air-fried to golden perfection. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft and savory on the inside.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Tots:
- Draining the Broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, make sure it’s drained well after steaming or blanching. Excess moisture will make the tots soggy. You can use a clean kitchen towel to press out extra moisture.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar is a popular choice for flavor, but mozzarella works well for a more melty, gooey texture. You can also add a bit of cream cheese for a richer taste.
- Breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed rice cereal or almond meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the broccoli tots in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, freeze the shaped tots on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Bake or air-fry directly from frozen—just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Add-ins: You can customize your broccoli tots by adding finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or even cauliflower for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dipping Sauce: These tots go perfectly with ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. You could also make a creamy avocado dip or a garlic aioli.
- As a Snack or Side: Serve them as a healthy snack for kids or as a side dish with grilled chicken or burgers.
- With a Salad: Add them to a bowl of leafy greens for a hearty, healthy meal.
Health Benefits:
- Broccoli: Full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, broccoli is great for your immune system, digestion, and overall health. It’s particularly rich in Vitamin C, fiber, and folate.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein, though you can make these tots even healthier by using less cheese or opting for a lower-fat version.
- Eggs and Breadcrumbs: The egg helps bind the mixture, while breadcrumbs provide a crunchy texture, making them the perfect vehicle for vegetables.
Broccoli Tots Recipe | What Is The Recipe Of Broccoli Tots
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli cut into equal sized florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, I used Cabot Vermont Sharp White Cheddar
- 1/3 cup onions finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
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Pour 1 inch of water into a saucepan; bring to a boil. Place the broccoli into the boiling water, cover, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the broccoli for 5-6 minutes, or until it can easily be pierced by a fork. Drain the broccoli and set aside to cool slightly.
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Lay the broccoli out onto paper towels and cover with more paper towels, Press down firmly on the broccoli to absorb as much moisture as you can. Another method is to put the broccoli in the center of a dish towel and ring out the water as seen here. Finely chop the broccoli.
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In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Fill each muffin cup in a mini muffin tin to the top, pushing down on the filling with your spoon so it's nice and compacted.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes in preheated oven. The top will be starting to golden. To easily remove from the pan (without scratching it to death), run a plastic knife around the edges of each tot and they should come out easier.
Conclusion:
Broccoli Tots are an easy, fun, and delicious way to enjoy more vegetables, especially for picky eaters. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a side dish, or a meal addition, these tots are a great choice. They’re simple to make, customizable, and most importantly, they’re irresistibly tasty!
