If you’ve been on the lookout for a delightful finger food that packs both flavor and nutrition, this Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe is a total game changer. These golden bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with the goodness of broccoli and the comforting taste of cheesy flavors that even non-vegans will adore. Perfect for snacking, parties, or as a side, these tots transform humble ingredients into something truly special with each irresistible bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe plays an essential role in bringing together that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each one is simple but crucial, ensuring the tots come out crispy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant green broccoli goodness.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, steamed and finely chopped to give that tender, vibrant green base.
- Shredded vegan cheddar cheese: Brings rich, melty cheesiness that defines the flavor profile.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds essential crunch and helps bind the mixture perfectly.
- Grated vegan Parmesan cheese: Enhances the savory depth, adding a subtle umami kick.
- Flaxseed egg (or your favorite egg replacer): Acts as a binder, keeping everything together without eggs.
- Garlic powder: Elevates the savory notes with a touch of aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Balances and brightens every component for a well-rounded flavor.
How to Make Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. Then, steam your broccoli until it’s tender enough to easily chop or pulse in a food processor. This step softens the broccoli so the tots have the perfect texture, not too crunchy or tough.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix your finely chopped broccoli with shredded vegan cheddar, breadcrumbs, vegan Parmesan, flaxseed egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the mixture comes together evenly. This blend creates the ideal balance between moisture, flavor, and that crispy outcome we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
Grab about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tot-like cylinders or balls using your hands. Placement on the prepared baking sheet is key—make sure they’re spaced out so they bake evenly without steaming each other.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your tots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they turn golden brown and develop that signature crispy crust. The aroma alone will have you excited for the very first bite.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once they’re done baking, serve these crispy gems warm, alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, vegan ranch, or a spicy mustard dip. The warm, melty vegan cheddar combined with crispy broccoli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a light drizzle of vegan cheese sauce can elevate your tots. These small touches add an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal that make the dish truly irresistible.
Side Dishes
These tots pair wonderfully with fresh, crisp salads, creamy vegan coleslaw, or a hearty bowl of soup. They also make a fantastic companion for wraps and sandwiches when you want something crunchy and flavorful on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve these Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe bites on a platter with an array of colorful dipping sauces, or stuff them inside sliders for a playful twist. Another fun idea is to pair them with a zesty homemade vegan cheese dip for an indulgent snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They stay crispy enough to enjoy cold or reheated, making them a perfect snack option that’s ready when you are.
Freezing
To freeze, place the shaped tots on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a sealed container or zip-top bag. This prevents clumping and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. Just bake them straight from frozen whenever you want a quick snack.
Reheating
Reheat your stored or frozen tots in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the tots delightful without gluten.
What’s a good egg substitute for binding?
Flaxseed meal mixed with water is a fantastic vegan binder. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until gel-like.
Can I bake these tots instead of frying?
Yes, baking is not only healthier but also super easy. These tots are designed to be baked to achieve that crispy texture without any frying needed.
How do I store leftover Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can reheat them in the oven to restore crispiness.
Can I add other veggies to the mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding finely chopped carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to sneak in more nutrients and color.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe is truly one of those dishes that surprises you with its ease and incredible flavor. Whether you’re making them for a snack, party, or to accompany a meal, they deliver a tasty, comforting bite that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to finger food!
Print
Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan, American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Chickpea Noodle Soup is a comforting and wholesome plant-based soup, perfect for a nutritious meal. Combining hearty chickpeas, tender noodles, and flavorful vegetables, this soup offers a rich, savory taste that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for those seeking a vegan-friendly, healthy, and light dish.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups egg-free vegan noodles (such as rice noodles or small pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add broth and chickpeas: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained chickpeas. Stir in dried thyme and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Add the vegan noodles to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, typically 7-10 minutes, until noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Season and add spinach: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use any vegan noodles of your choice, such as brown rice pasta or gluten-free noodles.
- Add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for more nutrition and variety.
- For extra protein, add some cubed tofu or tempeh.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste, adding herbs like rosemary or basil if desired.
