Irresistible Broccoli Croquettes: A Daily Delight

Introduction

These Broccoli Croquettes are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy your daily dose of greens. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are easy to make and packed with flavor. Serve them with a tangy yogurt dressing for an added burst of taste.

Ingredients

For the Croquettes:

• 500 g broccoli (1 lb 1¾ oz)
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 eggs
• 100 g rolled oats (1 cup)
• 100 g grated mozzarella (3½ oz)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for brushing

For the Dressing:

• 125 g yogurt (½ cup)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Some parsley, chopped
• Lemon juice, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Nutrition Information

This recipe makes approximately 12 croquettes. The nutritional information per croquette is as follows:

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Broccoli

1. Remove the Broccoli Florets:
   • Start by removing the broccoli florets from the stem. Don’t discard the stem; we’ll be using it too.
   • Rinse everything under running water.

Step 2: Steaming the Broccoli

1. Steam the Broccoli:
   • Place the broccoli florets and stem pieces in a steamer.
   • Turn on the stove, close the lid, and let them cook for about 10 minutes to soften.
   • Steaming the broccoli helps retain its nutrients and vibrant green color.

Step 3: Creating the Mixture

1. Mash the Broccoli:
   • Transfer the steamed broccoli into a bowl and mash them with a fork.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add 100 g rolled oats, 3 crushed garlic cloves, 100 g grated mozzarella, 2 eggs, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper.
   • Mix everything adequately with a wooden spoon until you have a homogeneous, soft, and compact mixture.

Step 4: Shaping the Croquettes

1. Shape the Croquettes:
   • Take a large handful of the mixture at a time and shape it with your hands into croquettes.
   • Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Baking to Perfection

1. Brush with Olive Oil:
   • Brush the croquettes with a little extra virgin olive oil on the surface.
2. Bake the Croquettes:
   • Bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 20 minutes.
   • Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re ready when they turn beautifully golden brown.

Step 6: Preparing the Dressing

1. Mix the Dressing:
   • In a bowl, combine 125 g yogurt, 2 minced garlic cloves, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
   • Mix well until smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve the Croquettes:
   • Serve the hot broccoli croquettes with the tangy yogurt dressing on the side for dipping.

Cooking Tips

• Extra Flavor: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the mixture for extra flavor.
• Consistency: Ensure the mixture is compact and not too wet; this will help the croquettes hold their shape.
• Alternative Cooking Method: For a healthier option, try air-frying the croquettes at 200°C for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Conclusion

These Broccoli Croquettes are a tasty and healthy way to enjoy vegetables. They are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any meal. Serve them with the yogurt dressing for a delightful combination of flavors. Enjoy this daily delight with your family and friends!

4o