Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Patties (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups broccoli florets, cooked until tender and finely chopped
02 - 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

04 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
05 - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

→ Binders

06 - 2 large eggs, beaten
07 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond meal

→ Seasoning and Oil

08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - Olive oil, for frying

→ Optional Additions

10 - Breadcrumbs, for additional crispiness
11 - Paprika, cumin, or fresh parsley or basil, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Cook broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water or a steamer for 5–7 minutes until tender, then drain well and allow to cool slightly.
02 - Finely chop cooked broccoli using a knife or food processor, being careful not to over-process. Place broccoli in a large mixing bowl.
03 - Add shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, flour or almond meal, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until mixture is well-combined and cohesive.
04 - With clean hands or a scoop, portion and shape the mixture into patties approximately 5–7 cm in diameter and 1.5 cm thick. Repeat until all mixture is used.
05 - For pan-frying: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large frying pan. Gently place patties into the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Remove to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. For baking: Preheat oven to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange patties on the sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
06 - Serve patties warm with preferred dipping sauces, as an appetizer, snack, or side.

# Notes:

01 - Do not overfill with cheese or patties may break apart during cooking. Compact patties firmly when shaping.
02 - Almond meal or gluten-free flour offers a gluten-free variation without compromising texture.
03 - Incorporate freshly chopped herbs or spices like paprika for enhanced flavor depth.
04 - Ensure broccoli is drained well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.