Muffins with broccoli and blue cheese

Enjoy a culinary experience that is both healthy and delicious with this captivating recipe for broccoli and blue cheese muffins. These muffins are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a quick and nutritious lunch. With a simple preparation and the right ingredients, you'll achieve a perfect combination of the fluffy texture of the muffins and the unmistakable flavor of blue cheese, all complemented by the nutritional benefits of broccoli.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients
- 150g broccoli
- 30ml olive oil
- 115g butter (divided: 40g for sautéing and 75g melted)
- 250g flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 30ml sour cream
- 45ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 20ml chili sauce
- 150g blue cheese

Step by step: How to make broccoli and blue cheese muffins

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is the ideal temperature to achieve fluffy and evenly browned muffins.

2. Prepare the muffin tin: Place the muffin liners in the muffin tin. If you don't have silicone liners, I recommend greasing them with a little butter or lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the broccoli: Wash the broccoli and cut it into small florets. This step is essential, as smaller florets will cook evenly and distribute flavor throughout the muffin.

4. Sauté the broccoli: In a pan, heat the olive oil along with 40g of butter. Add the broccoli and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. The goal is for it to become slightly tender while retaining its vibrant color and crunchy texture. Once sautéed, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool.

5. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour and add the baking powder. These dry ingredients are essential for achieving a fluffy texture. Mix well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.

6. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, the remaining melted butter, milk, and eggs. Beat them well until you achieve a smooth mixture. These ingredients will add moisture and richness to your muffins.

7. Combine the mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to overmix to avoid developing gluten and resulting in a dense consistency. Then add the sautéed broccoli, chili sauce, and crumbled blue cheese. Carefully mix everything to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

8. Fill the muffin cups: Use a spoon or ladle to fill the muffin cups with the prepared batter. Do not fill the cups to the brim; leave a little space to allow the muffins to rise.

9. Bake the muffins: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the muffins turn golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. This is when the delicious aroma of blue cheese and broccoli fills the entire kitchen!

10. Cool and serve: Once the muffins are done, let them cool in the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain the fluffy texture.

Serving suggestions
These broccoli and blue cheese muffins are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad for a healthy lunch or as an appetizer for an elegant dinner. A wonderful idea is to pair them with a yogurt herb dip or a spicy tomato sauce for a perfect contrast.

Variations
- Vegetarian muffins: Substitute blue cheese with feta or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Add vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to bring more colors and enrich the flavor.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe suitable for those with intolerances.

Nutritional benefits
Broccoli is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Blue cheese provides calcium and protein, while eggs bring essential amino acids for a balanced diet. These muffins are perfect for adding vegetables to your diet and enjoying a delicious, nutrient-packed snack.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I substitute blue cheese with another type of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, but make sure to choose one that melts well.
- Can I freeze the muffins? Absolutely! These muffins freeze very well. Place them in airtight containers, and you can keep them for up to 3 months.
- How can I make the muffins less spicy? You can reduce the amount of chili sauce or omit it completely for a milder version.

These broccoli and blue cheese muffins are more than just a dish – they are a way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. Whether you prepare them for yourself or for friends, they are sure to be appreciated. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and unleash your culinary creativity!