Cauliflower and broccoli fritters

Delicious cauliflower and broccoli bites – a clever recipe to convince kids to eat vegetables!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Do you remember the time you discovered that vegetables can be delicious? These cauliflower and broccoli bites are a perfect way to transform vegetables into a tasty dish that will surely win the hearts of little ones (and not just them). Whether you want to add more vegetables to your family’s diet or simply want to experiment with healthy ingredients, this recipe will bring smiles to your table.

Ingredients:

- 800 g cauliflower and broccoli puree (preferably made from fresh vegetables)
- 150 g goat cheese with chia and pumpkin seeds (or any other preferred cheese)
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- 1 leek (finely chopped)
- about 200 g breadcrumbs (to form the bites)

Ingredient tips:

- Cauliflower and broccoli: Make sure to use fresh vegetables. The cauliflower should be white, and the broccoli should have a vibrant green color. These vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Cheese: You can experiment with various types of cheese, such as feta, mozzarella, or cottage cheese. For a vegan option, you can omit the cheese and use tofu or a nut mixture instead.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use whole grain breadcrumbs for added fiber. If you want to reduce gluten, opt for almond breadcrumbs or ground oats.

Preparing the bites:

1. Preparing the puree: Start by making the cauliflower and broccoli puree according to your favorite recipe. Make sure the puree is smooth and creamy, without large chunks, to achieve uniform and tasty bites.

2. Preparing the mixture: In a food processor, add the cheese along with the egg. Blend until you get a smooth paste. This combination will add a pleasant texture to your bites.

3. Chopping the leek: Finely chop the leek so that it integrates well into the mixture, bringing a delicate taste and pleasant aroma.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the vegetable puree, cheese paste, chopped leek, and about 100 g of breadcrumbs. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until the mixture is homogeneous. If you find it too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs until you achieve the right consistency for forming the bites.

5. Forming the bites: With wet hands, form bites of the desired size. Coat them in a thin layer of breadcrumbs to give them a crispy crust when cooked.

6. Cooking the bites: Here you have two delicious options! You can fry the bites in a pan with hot oil until they become golden and crispy, or you can bake them in the oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.

Serving:

Serve these bites warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with garlic. They are perfect as an appetizer or as a main dish, with various side dishes. A great combination could be with a tomato salad with basil or even with mashed potatoes for a comforting lunch.

Nutritional benefits:

Cauliflower and broccoli bites are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which helps maintain digestive health. Additionally, goat cheese provides protein and calcium, while whole grain breadcrumbs add complex carbohydrates.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I freeze the bites? Yes, it’s a good idea! After cooking them, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer. You can reheat them in the oven when you want to serve them.
- What can I use instead of leek? You can replace the leek with green onion or white onion, depending on your preferences.
- How can I add extra flavor? Try adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs (oregano, dill) to the bites’ mixture for a more intense taste.

Possible variations:

Depending on your preferences, you can also add other vegetables to the puree, such as carrots or zucchini. You can also enrich the mixture with spices and fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.

These cauliflower and broccoli bites are not only a creative way to introduce vegetables into kids' diets but also a healthy and tasty choice for the whole family. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let’s cook together! Enjoy your meal!