Broccoli Cheese Balls
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
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Steam broccoli until slightly softened. Let cool.
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Finely chop broccoli. You want the pieces to be 1/4-inch or less. Place in a large bowl.
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Add cheese, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 egg to bowl with broccoli. Stir well.
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Use your hands to shape mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball. You should get 12-14.
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Place balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Place flour in a bowl.
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Place the 2 lightly beaten eggs in a second bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon water.
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Place remaining 2 cups Panko crumbs in a third bowl.
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Pour about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat oil to 375 degrees. For best results use a thermometer.
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Remove broccoli balls from refrigerator, coat in flour, dip in egg mixture, and then coat in Panko crumbs.
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Fry about 4 balls at a time cooking until golden brown on all sides.
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Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
