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Broccoli-Cheese Tater Tots Recipe: A Fun Side Dish

In the realm of side dishes, few things can compete with the crispy delight of tater tots. This delightful dish is not only a nostalgic childhood favourite for many but also an incredibly versatile base for a range of flavours and ingredients. Today, we’re taking a classic tater tot and giving it a vegetable-packed twist with our Broccoli-Cheese Tater Tots. This recipe is not only fun and easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your meal. Perfect for children and adults alike, these tater tots make for an excellent side dish or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

To whip up your Broccoli-Cheese Tater Tots, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 100g cheddar cheese, grated (feel free to use a strong or mild variety)
• 1 egg
• 100g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: A pinch of paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

If you’re using fresh broccoli, bring a pot of salted water to the boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and plunge them into cold water to stop the cooking process. If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and drain any excess moisture.

Step 2: Cook the Potato

Boil the diced potato in a separate pot until tender, approximately 10-15 minutes. Drain and allow to cool for a few moments until you can handle them. Mash the potato in a large bowl until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Chop the cooled broccoli into small pieces and add it to the mashed potato. Incorporate the grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and the egg. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne for a little kick. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Tater Tots

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. With your hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into small, cylindrical tots. Roll them in breadcrumbs to coat evenly for that delicious crispy texture.

Step 5: Bake

Arrange the tater tots on the baking tray, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil or drizzle a little oil on them before placing them in the oven. Bake for around 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the tater tots from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm as a side dish with your main meal, or enjoy them as a tasty snack on their own. They pair brilliantly with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy dip of your choice.

Conclusion

These Broccoli-Cheese Tater Tots are a crunchy delight that transforms a mundane side dish into something exciting and nutritious. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste. Whether served alongside a comforting casserole, grilled meats, or as a standalone snack, these tater tots are sure to delight family and friends alike. Enjoy the fun of cooking and the pleasure of sharing a hearty, wholesome dish!