Broccoli Fries
FRIES……
Yes – Fries!
I had to lead with that to get you to read today’s recipe. If I had opened with “Broccoli Fries” you’d have said something like “Oh hell no!” and scrolled on.
But seriously, let’s talk about them. When we prepare broccoli, most of us cut the florets off and throw away the stalks. We might, with good intention save them for later thinking we’ll purée them for soup (not a bad idea) but the reality is eventually they end up in the trash. Until now – broccoli fries!
These are perfect for a snack, alongside your favorite dipping sauce (see the dill ranch dressing below). They’re an unusual, sneaky vegetable snack for kids too!
Just peel, cut, season, air fry and VOILA! – broccoli fries!
Thanks to @healthyeatingtoday and @feelgoodfoodie for this original recipe.
INGREDIENTS for fries:
· 2 broccoli stalks
· 2 tsp olive oil
· ½ tsp garlic powder
· Salt and pepper to taste
· ¼ cup panko crumbs – optional, for a bit of crunch (preferably whole wheat)
· 1 tsp cornstarch – optional, for a bit of a crunch
INGREDIENTS for dipping sauce:
· 1/4 cup plain fat free greek yogurt
· 1 TBLSP dried dill
· 1 tsp minced garlic
· Pinch of salt and pepper to taste
· 1 TBLSP lemon juice
DIRECTIONS:
· Using a vegetable peeler, remove the tough outer skin from the broccoli stalks*
· Cut each stalk in half, then cut each half into 1/4“ wide fries. Transfer to a medium sized bowl.
· Add the olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper and panko crumbs (optional) and coat thoroughly.
· Transfer the coated stalks to the air fryer, placing them in a single layer. Air fry at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through and checking to keep from getting too dark**
· While the fries are in the fryer, thoroughly mix the dipping sauce ingredients together. Set aside.
· Serve with the dill dipping sauce or your favorite dip.
*I had to remove some of it with a paring knife before I could peel it with the vegetable peeler.
**Air fryers vary. I checked mine every 5 minutes and the total time was 15.
