Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (450 g) Broccoli Florets, packed and finely chopped/grated
  • 1 cup (115 g) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • Olive Oil Cooking Spray, as needed

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Finely process or grate the broccoli florets using a food processor or box grater until they resemble coarse crumbs.
  2. Remove Moisture (Crucial Step): Transfer the grated broccoli to the center of a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist tightly and squeeze out as much excess liquid/moisture as possible. This is essential for crispy, non-soggy tots.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Transfer the dry broccoli 'pulp' to a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded Cheddar, Parmesan, flour, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well until fully combined.
  4. Add Binder: Pour in the lightly beaten egg. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spoon until the mixture holds together like damp sand.
  5. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly mist the paper with cooking spray.
  6. Shape and Chill: Scoop 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into classic cylindrical tot shapes (about 1 inch wide and 1.5 inches long). Place the shaped tots on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 30 minutes to firm the structure.
  7. Bake Initial Stage: Place the chilled tots into the preheated oven. Bake for 12 minutes.
  8. Flip and Finish: Remove the tray and carefully flip each tot over using a spatula. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the tots are deeply golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove from the oven. Let them rest on the tray for 2–3 minutes before serving piping hot with your favorite dip.