Crispy Vegan Broccoli Cheese Bites

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 20 bites

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz vegan cheese (e.g., dairy-free cheddar or mozzarella), diced into small pieces
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 1/4 cups Panko breadcrumbs, divided
  • 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 flax eggs (for coating) (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed meal + 6 tablespoons water)
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Broccoli:
  • Steam the broccoli florets until tender but still bright green. Drain and let cool slightly, then finely chop.
  1. Prepare the Broccoli Cheese Mixture:
  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, vegan shredded cheeses, diced vegan cheese pieces, red pepper flakes, and 1/4 cup Panko crumbs. Mix well.
  1. Bind the Mixture:
  • Prepare the flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Add the flax egg to the broccoli cheese mixture and mix thoroughly to bind.
  1. Coating Preparation:
  • Set up three shallow bowls with all-purpose flour, prepared flax eggs (2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons of water), and the remaining 2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs.
  1. Form and Coat the Bites:
  • Form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls.
  • Roll each ball in the flour, dip in the prepared flax eggs, and coat evenly with the Panko breadcrumbs.
  1. Frying:
  • In a deep fryer or skillet, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable or canola oil to 350°F.
  • Fry the broccoli cheese bites in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  • Drain the fried bites on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
  1. Serve:
  • Let the vegan broccoli cheese bites cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Notes:

  • These bites can also be baked instead of fried. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
  • Prepare ahead and reheat in the oven before serving if making in advance.
  • Experiment with different vegan cheese varieties to vary the flavors of your broccoli cheese bites.

Enjoy these vegan crispy broccoli cheese bites as a delicious appetizer or snack! They feature a crunchy Panko crust and a flavorful, cheesy broccoli center, perfect for any occasion.