Broccoli Fritters (Galettes de Brocoli)

These Broccoli Fritters, or Galettes de Brocoli, are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a crisp, golden format. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or even a vegetarian main course, these fritters blend tender broccoli with fresh herbs, parmesan, and a touch of garlic for a savory, satisfying flavor. They’re quick to prepare and oven-finished for added crispness without excess oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A creative and delicious way to eat more vegetables

• Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside

• Versatile as a side dish, appetizer, or main

• Balanced with protein, fiber, and nutrients

• Kid-friendly and great for introducing vegetables in a fun way

• Can be made in advance and reheated

• Oven-finished for a healthier twist on pan-fried fritters

• Gluten-friendly option with minor adjustments

• Ideal for meatless meals

• Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Broccoli

• Fresh parsley

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Garlic

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F) and prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

2. Cook the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into florets and boil them in salted water for 5 minutes until tender. Drain well and chop finely.

3. Prepare the Aromatics: Rinse and finely chop the parsley. Peel and finely mince the garlic.

4. Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add flour, grated parmesan, chopped garlic, chopped broccoli, and parsley. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Form and Fry the Fritters: Shape the mixture into fritters of your desired size. In a skillet over high heat with a bit of oil, sear the fritters on all sides until golden brown.

6. Finish in the Oven: Transfer the fritters to the prepared baking tray and bake for 15 minutes to ensure they are cooked through and nicely crisped.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for extra richness.

• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the mix.

• Herb Twist: Swap parsley with fresh dill, basil, or chives.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour as a substitute.

• Vegan Version: Use flaxseed eggs and plant-based cheese alternatives.

• Extra Veggies: Mix in grated carrot, zucchini (drained), or spinach for added nutrition.

• Asian-Inspired: Add a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a unique twist.

• Mini Bites: Shape into small rounds and serve with dip as appetizers.

• Baked Only: Skip frying and bake directly at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes.

• Protein Boost: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas into the mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Place in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months.

• Reheating (Oven): Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes until warmed through.

• Reheating (Pan): Warm on medium heat in a skillet with a touch of oil until crispy.

• Microwave: Reheat for 1–2 minutes, though texture may soften.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using.

Can I bake the fritters without frying?

Yes, bake directly at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden and firm.

What can I serve with broccoli fritters?

They pair well with a green salad, yogurt dip, sour cream, or even tomato-based sauces.

Are these fritters suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The soft interior and mild flavor make them appealing to children.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the mixture can be refrigerated for a few hours before shaping and cooking.

Do I need to peel the broccoli stems?

Not necessarily. You can use the tender parts of the stem, finely chopped, for less waste.

Can I use another cheese instead of parmesan?

Yes, cheddar, pecorino, or nutritional yeast (for vegan) are good alternatives.

How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is not too wet, and shape them firmly before cooking.

Is it possible to make them in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 180°C (350°F) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).

Conclusion

Broccoli Fritters are a delightful, health-conscious option for anyone seeking to add more vegetables to their meals in a delicious way. Easy to prepare, adaptable to different dietary needs, and perfect for any time of day, these fritters are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve them warm with your favorite dip and enjoy a balanced bite of flavor and nourishment.