Broccoli Cheese Delight (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets.
02 -
1 cup shredded Colby cheese.
03 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
04 -
4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks.
05 -
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
06 -
2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs, divided.
07 -
1 egg, lightly beaten.
08 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
09 -
2 eggs, lightly beaten.
10 -
Vegetable or canola oil (for frying).
Instructions:
01 -
Steam the broccoli florets until slightly softened. Allow them to cool before handling.
02 -
Finely chop the cooled broccoli into small pieces, about 1/4-inch or less. Place the chopped broccoli in a large mixing bowl.
03 -
Add the shredded Colby cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Velveeta chunks, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of Panko crumbs, and 1 lightly beaten egg to the bowl with the broccoli. Mix well to combine.
04 -
Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls, using about a rounded tablespoon of the mixture for each ball. You should get approximately 12-14 balls. Place the formed balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
05 -
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with the flour, one with the remaining 2 lightly beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon of water, and the third with the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs.
06 -
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil into a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accurate temperature control.
07 -
Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the refrigerator. Coat each ball in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with Panko crumbs.
08 -
Fry the balls in batches of about 4 at a time, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
09 -
Remove the fried balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot.
Notes:
01 -
Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious appetizer or snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheese. Perfectly fried to a golden brown, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.