Broccoli meatballs with parmesan

Delicious Broccoli Parmesan Fritters Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the wonderful world of cooking, where every ingredient has a story to tell! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for broccoli parmesan fritters, a healthy and tasty option perfect for lunch or dinner. These fritters are not only a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet but also a delicacy that will delight your taste buds. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 100-150 g broccoli (about 1 medium bunch)
- 1 large carrot
- 1/2 white onion
- 1 egg
- 50 g grated parmesan (or other cheese, as preferred)
- 1-2 tablespoons flour (you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- Salt, pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (sunflower oil or olive oil)

Necessary utensils:
- Pot for boiling
- Grater
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Frying pan
- Kitchen towel to absorb oil

A brief history of the recipe:
Fritters, in general, have a long and varied history, being found in different cultures in various forms. These broccoli fritters are a modern reinterpretation of this dish, bringing together fresh vegetables and cheese to create a healthy and nutrient-rich snack. Broccoli, known for its nutritional benefits, is part of the cruciferous family and is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

Preparing the broccoli fritters

1. Preparing the broccoli:
Start by placing the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water with a pinch of salt. Boil them for 10-15 minutes until they are tender but not completely broken down. It’s important for the broccoli to retain some texture to achieve delicious fritters. Once boiled, drain well and place them on a plate, allowing them to cool slightly.

2. Chopping the ingredients:
Use a knife to finely chop the boiled broccoli. You want to achieve small pieces but not a paste. Meanwhile, grate the carrot and finely chop the white onion. These ingredients will add not only flavor but also an extra texture to your fritters.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, grated carrot, onion, egg, grated parmesan, flour, and spices (salt and pepper). Use a wooden spoon to mix everything well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If it is too wet, you can add a bit more flour.

4. Forming the fritters:
Wet your palms to prevent the mixture from sticking and form the fritters. You can make smaller or larger fritters depending on your preference. Make sure they are well compacted.

5. Frying:
Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the fritters to the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden and crispy. Remove them onto a kitchen towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Serving:
These broccoli parmesan fritters can be served warm or cold. They are wonderful alongside a garlic yogurt sauce or a quick garlic dip that you can prepare by mixing yogurt with crushed garlic, salt, and a bit of fresh dill. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish alongside a fresh salad.

Useful tips:
- Vegetarian option: If you want to make them vegan, you can replace the egg with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Adding flavors: For an even more intense taste, you can add herbs like basil, dill, or parsley to the mixture.
- Storage: Leftover fritters can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and are perfect for reheating in the microwave or oven.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can add zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower, depending on your preferences!
- How can I bake the fritters? You can place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a little oil, and bake at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- What drinks pair well? These fritters pair excellently with herbal tea or a green smoothie, given their healthy character.

Broccoli parmesan fritters are not only a delicious choice but also a great way to enrich your meals with vegetables! Whether you serve them at a family meal or at a party with friends, I’m sure they will be appreciated by everyone. Enjoy your meal!