Broccoli Pancakes with Cheese Recipe

Do you want to add a burst of color, texture, and flavor to your breakfast routine? Let’s bring some healthiness to your table with an easy and delicious recipe, the “Broccoli Pancakes with Cheese”. 

Trust me; this is not your average pancake. And for those who love a little twist, let’s pair this mouthwatering dish with a side of Vegan Brown Rice BBQ Meatloaf for a perfect combination. You can find the recipe here: https://successrice.com/recipes/vegan-brown-rice-bbq-meatloaf/ Let’s dive into the secrets of preparing these mouthwatering broccoli pancakes with cheese.

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)

1 egg (or flaxseed egg for a vegan option)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)

2 tablespoons butter (or oil for a vegan option)

Maple syrup or sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well blended.

Step 3

Pour the milk mixture into the bowl with the broccoli mixture and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and coat the surface.

Step 6

Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Step 7

Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side, until they are cooked through and slightly crispy.

Step 8

Remove the pancakes from the skillet and keep them warm. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed.

Step 9

Serve the broccoli pancakes warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Pancakes with Cheese

Rich in Fiber and Vitamins

Broccoli, the star ingredient of these pancakes, is packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Additionally, broccoli is an excellent source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and promotes collagen production, while vitamin K supports bone health and helps with blood clotting. 

Abundant in Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a vital role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in our bodies. Broccoli is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C. These antioxidants help protect our cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and inflammation.

Promotes Heart Health

Including broccoli pancakes in your diet can benefit your cardiovascular system. Broccoli contains compounds like sulforaphane and glucoraphanin that have been shown to have heart-protective properties. These compounds help reduce cholesterol levels and promote a healthy balance of blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Secrets of Preparation Creating Perfect Broccoli Pancakes

Finely chop the broccoli: To ensure the broccoli blends well with the pancake batter, it’s important to finely chop the florets. This will help distribute the flavor and texture throughout the pancakes.

Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes. Mix until the ingredients are just combined for light and fluffy pancakes.

Adjust the consistency: If the batter seems too thick, you can add a little more milk to achieve the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but not too runny.

Experiment with cheese: While cheddar cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to these pancakes, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella or Swiss for a unique twist.

Accompaniments Enhancing the Flavor

Broccoli pancakes with cheese are delicious on their own, but they can be elevated with a few tasty accompaniments. Here are some ideas to take your pancakes to the next level:

• Sautéed mushrooms: Top your pancakes with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy and savory addition.
• Crispy bacon: Crumble some crispy bacon over the pancakes for a delightful combination of flavors.
• Avocado slices: Add some creamy avocado slices on top for a touch of freshness and creaminess.
• Herb-infused sour cream: Mix chopped fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley into sour cream for a zesty and aromatic topping.

Variations of Broccoli Pancakes with Cheese

Veggie Medley: Enhance the nutritional profile and flavor of your pancakes by adding a medley of veggies. Finely chop vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini, and mix them into the pancake batter. 

Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a touch of heat, spice up your pancakes by incorporating some chili flakes or finely diced jalapeños into the batter. The spicy element pairs well with the savory broccoli and cheese, adding a delightful kick to each bite.

Cheesy Delight: While the recipe already includes shredded cheddar cheese, you can experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste. Try using gouda, feta, or even blue cheese to create a unique flavor profile. 

Proper Storage Keeping Your Pancakes Fresh

If you have any leftover broccoli pancakes, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here’s how:

• Allow the pancakes to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store the pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Now that you have the secrets of preparing delicious broccoli pancakes with cheese, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast or a unique brunch option, these pancakes are sure to impress. 

Don’t forget to check out the mouthwatering vegan brown rice BBQ meatloaf recipe that perfectly complements the flavors of these pancakes. Happy cooking and bon appétit!