Recipe: Broccoli and Cheese Balls
History:
Broccoli and cheese is a classic combination that has been a staple in various cuisines, especially in American and European dishes. The marriage of broccoli’s earthy, slightly bitter taste with the creamy, salty, and rich flavor of cheese creates a balance that appeals to many palates. Broccoli, which became popular in the United States in the 1920s, has been used in a variety of dishes, but pairing it with cheese has been a favorite way to make this nutritious vegetable more appealing, especially to children. These Broccoli and Cheese Balls are a modern twist on this classic pairing, offering a bite-sized, crunchy, and cheesy snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Benefits:
- High in Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as folate, fiber, and various antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.
- Rich in Calcium and Protein: The cheese used in this recipe provides calcium, which is crucial for bone health, and protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
- Low in Carbs: This dish can be keto-friendly if you use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy flavor and crunchy texture make these balls appealing to children, helping parents sneak in some veggies in a tasty way.
- Versatile: These balls can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as a side dish, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Broccoli and Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets, steamed and chopped finely
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (or almond flour)
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once steamed, finely chop the broccoli and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and forms a sticky mixture.
- Shape the Balls:
- Using your hands, scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up.
- Coat the Balls:
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or almond flour) and grated Parmesan cheese for the coating. Roll each broccoli and cheese ball in this mixture until fully coated.
- Bake the Balls:
- Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the balls with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake the balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Remove the balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (like marinara, ranch, or aioli).
Method Tips:
- Steaming Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli is just tender but not overcooked to avoid a mushy texture in the balls. You can also use leftover broccoli from previous meals.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack, to give the balls a unique flavor profile.
- Freezing Option: These balls can be made ahead and frozen. After shaping the balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion:
Broccoli and Cheese Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack that combines the health benefits of broccoli with the indulgent flavor of cheese. They are easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.