BROCCOLI CHEESE PATTIES

Ingredients and Quantity:

– **For the Patties:**
– 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed and chopped)

– 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
– ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 clove garlic (minced)

– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

– **For the Dipping Sauce (optional):**
– ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

### Optional Additions:
– **Cheese Variations:** Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, gouda, or even feta for a unique flavor twist.
– **Herbs & Spices:** Add dried oregano, thyme, or basil to enhance the taste of the patties.
– **Vegetable Add-ins:** Try adding finely chopped spinach, carrots, or cauliflower for an extra dose of veggies.
– **Spicy Kick:** Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mix for some heat.
– **Breadcrumb Substitutes:** Use almond meal or oat flour for a gluten-free option, or quinoa for a more wholesome twist.

### Tips for Success:
1. **Don’t overcook the broccoli:** Steam or blanch the broccoli just until tender, then chop it finely. Overcooked broccoli can become too mushy and affect the texture of the patties.

2. **Properly drain the broccoli:** After steaming the broccoli, ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can make the patties fall apart. You can press it gently with a paper towel to absorb any excess liquid.

3. **Chill the mixture:** If you find the patty mixture too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This will help it hold together better when frying.

4. **Shape the patties carefully:** Use your hands or a spoon to form small, compact patties. The firmer the patty, the better it will stay intact during cooking.

5. **Use high heat for frying:** When frying the patties, use medium-high heat to get a crispy golden crust. However, don’t overheat the oil, as this can cause burning without properly cooking the inside.

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Broccoli:**
– Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain well and chop finely. Let it cool for a few minutes.

2. **Mix the Ingredients:**
– In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. **Form the Patties:**
– Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round or oval patties. If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes to firm it up.

4. **Fry the Patties:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

5. **Drain and Serve:**
– Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice (such as sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy dip).

### Description:
Broccoli cheese patties are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. These crispy, golden patties are packed with nutritious broccoli and melty cheese, creating a satisfying and comforting bite.

The combination of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs ensures the patties hold together beautifully and develop a nice, crisp texture when fried. Whether served with a creamy dip or enjoyed on their own, these patties are a hit with both kids and adults.

### Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings):

– **Calories:** 220
– **Total Fat:** 16g
– **Saturated Fat:** 8g
– **Cholesterol:** 140mg
– **Sodium:** 470mg

– **Total Carbohydrates:** 15g
– **Dietary Fiber:** 3g
– **Sugars:** 2g
– **Protein:** 11g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

### Conclusion:

Broccoli cheese patties are a delightful and satisfying dish that offer a creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, savory interior, they are sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether as a healthy snack or a flavorful side dish, these patties can be easily customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

### Recommendation:

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy broccoli, these broccoli cheese patties are a great choice. They make a perfect addition to any meal, and their crispy texture makes them a crowd-pleaser at parties or family gatherings. For those looking to embrace a healthful indulgence, these patties are a great option—offering the nutritional benefits of broccoli combined with the comforting flavor of cheese. You can feel good about enjoying these guilt-free, flavorful bites as part of a balanced diet.