Broccoli Cheese Balls 

Welcome to the delectable world of Broccoli Cheese Balls, where crispy exteriors give way to a tantalizing blend of gooey melted cheese and fresh broccoli within. These savory delights are not just appetizers; they’re miniature explosions of flavor that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging in a delightful snack, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs, divided
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Vegetable or Canola oil

Instructions:

1. Begin by steaming the broccoli until it’s slightly softened. Once done, allow it to cool before proceeding.
2. Finely chop the cooled broccoli into pieces no larger than 1/4-inch and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. To the bowl of broccoli, add the shredded Colby cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chunks of Velveeta, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of Panko crumbs, and one lightly beaten egg. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined.
4. With clean hands, shape the mixture into balls, using approximately a rounded tablespoon of the mixture for each ball. This should yield around 12 to 14 balls. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Prepare three separate bowls for the breading process: one with all-purpose flour, another with the two lightly beaten eggs mixed with a tablespoon of water, and the third with the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs.
6. In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, pour vegetable or canola oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s hot enough for frying. A thermometer can be useful for accurate temperature control.
7. Retrieve the chilled broccoli balls from the refrigerator. Coat each ball first in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, roll it in the Panko crumbs until evenly coated.
8. Fry the coated balls in batches of about 4 at a time, ensuring they’re golden brown on all sides. This should take approximately 2-3 minutes per batch.
9. Once fried to perfection, remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • While fresh broccoli is recommended for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen broccoli if it’s thawed and thoroughly drained.
2. Can I substitute different types of cheese?
   • Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda can be excellent alternatives.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the broccoli cheese balls up to the breading stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   • Although frying yields the crispiest results, you can bake the broccoli cheese balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store any leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness.
6. Can I freeze these?
   • Yes, you can freeze the uncooked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
7. Can I omit the crushed red pepper flakes?
   • Absolutely, feel free to adjust the level of spiciness to your liking or omit the crushed red pepper flakes altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
8. Can I use a different oil for frying?
   • Yes, you can use oils with a high smoke point such as peanut or sunflower oil for frying the broccoli cheese balls.

Tips:

1. Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped to ensure even distribution within the cheese mixture.
2. Use a cookie scoop or melon baller for uniform-sized balls, which will ensure even cooking.
3. Maintain a consistent oil temperature throughout frying to achieve a crispy exterior without burning.
4. Serve the broccoli cheese balls with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

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