Olivia Carter
If you’re a fan of crispy and nutritious snacks, then you’ve probably heard of broccoli tots. These delicious bite-sized treats are made from a combination of broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs, resulting in a healthy and flavorful snack that both kids and adults love. While baking broccoli tots in the oven is a popular cooking method, using an air fryer can give you even better results. Not only does it cook the tots quickly and evenly, but it also gives them a perfectly crispy exterior.
So, how long should you cook broccoli tots in an air fryer? The exact cooking time may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, but as a general guideline, you can cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. It’s important to preheat the air fryer before adding the tots to ensure that they cook evenly. Be sure to arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket, allowing enough space for air to circulate around them.
Keep an eye on the tots as they cook, as cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the tots. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a golden brown color and have a crispy texture. If you prefer them to be extra crispy, you can cook them for a few more minutes. It’s always a good idea to check for doneness by cutting one tot in half to make sure that it’s cooked all the way through.
Once the broccoli tots are cooked to your desired level of doneness, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, as they will be very hot straight out of the air fryer. Serve the tots as a tasty snack on their own, or as a side dish with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you’re making them for a party, a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or just a delicious snack, cooking broccoli tots in an air fryer is a healthy and convenient option that yields fantastic results every time.
Preparation for Broccoli Tots
Before cooking the broccoli tots in the air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare the ingredients and have them ready. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Gather the Ingredients:
1. Broccoli: Start by gathering fresh broccoli florets. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Chop the Broccoli:
2. Chop: Take a sharp knife and chop the broccoli florets into small pieces. You can use a food processor to make it faster and more consistent.
Steam the Broccoli:
3. Steam: Place the chopped broccoli in a steamer basket and steam it for about 5-7 minutes or until it becomes tender. Alternatively, you can microwave it by placing the chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water and covering it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until it becomes tender.
Squeeze out the Excess Moisture:
4. Drain: Once the broccoli is cooked, transfer it to a colander or a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to cool down slightly and then squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the broccoli tots from becoming too mushy in the air fryer.
5. Season: Now is the time to add your desired seasonings to the broccoli. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other seasoning of your choice. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Once the broccoli is prepared and seasoned, you are ready to move on to the next steps for cooking them in the air fryer. Make sure to follow the specific air fryer instructions and cooking times to get perfectly crispy and delicious broccoli tots.
Cooking Broccoli Tots in Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried tots, air frying broccoli tots is a delicious option. Not only are they packed with nutrients from the broccoli, but they also have a crispy texture that is hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the steamed and chopped broccoli, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the beaten eggs to the broccoli mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together when shaped into tots.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If necessary, lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
4. Take about a tablespoon of the broccoli mixture and shape it into a small tot. Repeat with the remaining mixture until all the tots are formed.
5. Place the tots in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. If needed, cook them in batches.
6. Lightly spray the tots with olive oil spray to help with browning and give them a nice crispy texture.
7. Air fry the broccoli tots at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
8. Once cooked, remove the tots from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as a healthy snack or side dish!
Air frying broccoli tots is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The air fryer cooks them to perfection, resulting in a satisfying crunch without the need for excessive frying oil. Try this recipe today and discover a healthier twist on traditional tots!
Serving and Enjoying Broccoli Tots
Once your broccoli tots are cooked to perfection in your air fryer, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. These crispy and delicious tots make a great appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal on their own.
Here are some ideas for serving and enjoying your broccoli tots:
| Serving Suggestion | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic Dip | Pair your broccoli tots with a classic dipping sauce like ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard. The creamy and tangy flavors will complement the crispy texture of the tots perfectly. |
| Healthy Twist | If you’re looking to keep it light and healthy, serve your broccoli tots with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with garlic and lemon juice. This adds a refreshing and tangy element to the dish. |
| Vegetarian Delight | Create a vegetarian plate by serving your broccoli tots with a side of fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado. Drizzle some balsamic vinaigrette for added flavor. |
| Party Platter | For a party or gathering, arrange your broccoli tots on a platter with a variety of other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, and mini sliders. This will give your guests a delicious assortment to choose from. |
No matter how you choose to serve your broccoli tots, be sure to savor every bite. The delicious combination of crispy exterior and tender interior will make these tots a crowd favorite!
Q&A
What are broccoli tots?
Broccoli tots are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. They are made with a mixture of finely chopped broccoli, cheese, bread crumbs, and seasonings. They are usually baked or air fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
How long do I need to cook broccoli tots in an air fryer?
The cooking time for broccoli tots in an air fryer can vary depending on the model and size of the tots. Generally, they need to be cooked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes. It’s best to check on them occasionally and flip them over halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
