Ingredients:

• 700 grams of minced meat (beef, chicken, or a mix)
• 1 medium broccoli head (about 250-300g)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, about 2 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Steps to Make It:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut the broccoli into florets and steam or blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green. Drain and rinse the broccoli with cold water to stop the cooking process, then chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped broccoli, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. The minced meat can be beef, chicken, turkey, or any combination of ground meats you prefer.
   • Crack the egg into the mixture and add the flour. The egg and flour will act as binders, holding the patties together during cooking.
   • Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preferences. For an extra kick, you can add some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
3. Mix and Form the Patties:
   • Use your hands or a large spoon to thoroughly combine the ingredients until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should hold together well, but not be too wet or sticky. If it feels too loose, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour.
   • Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, and shape the mixture into medium-sized patties. Aim for about 8-10 patties, depending on the size you prefer. Press them gently to flatten them slightly.
4. Fry the Patties:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the patties in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
   • Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 75°C (165°F) for chicken or turkey, and 70°C (160°F) for beef or pork.
   • Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the broccoli and minced meat patties hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired. These patties can be enjoyed on their own, with a side of vegetables, over a salad, or in a sandwich or burger bun for a hearty meal.
   • Pair the patties with a simple yogurt or sour cream dip, or serve them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Iron: 2mg
• Calcium: 35mg
• Vitamin C: 25mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you don’t have fresh broccoli on hand. Simply thaw the broccoli and drain any excess moisture before chopping and adding it to the minced meat mixture.
2. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them? Absolutely! To make a healthier version, you can bake the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The patties should be golden brown and cooked through when done.
3. What type of minced meat works best for this recipe? You can use any type of minced meat, such as beef, chicken, turkey, or pork. You can even mix different types of meat for added flavor. For a leaner option, ground chicken or turkey works well, while ground beef or pork offers a richer taste.
4. Can I freeze the patties? Yes, these patties freeze well. After forming the patties, you can freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, simply thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and fry or bake as directed.
5. What can I serve with these patties? These patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve them with mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. They also work well in wraps or sandwiches with fresh greens and a tangy sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Broccoli and Minced Meat Patties:

1. Chop the Broccoli Finely:
   • Make sure to chop the steamed or blanched broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces so that it incorporates evenly into the patties. This also ensures that the patties hold together well and the broccoli cooks evenly with the meat.
2. Use Fresh Herbs:
   • Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and brightness to the patties. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for a different twist.
3. Don’t Overwork the Mixture:
   • Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing the meat mixture can make the patties tough and dense, so it’s best to handle the mixture gently.
4. Adjust the Seasoning:
   • Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. For example, you can add cumin, paprika, or chili flakes for a spicier flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also add depth to the flavor.
5. Test for Doneness:
   • If you’re unsure whether the patties are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For chicken and turkey, the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F), and for beef or pork, it should reach at least 70°C (160°F).

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration:
  Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Freezing:
  To freeze the patties, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven until heated through.
• Reheating:
  Reheat the patties in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or warm them up in a skillet on the stovetop. You can also microwave them for a quick reheating option.

Conclusion:

Broccoli and Minced Meat Patties are a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of ground meat with the crunch and nutrients of broccoli. These patties are easy to prepare and can be customized with different types of meat, seasonings, and herbs to suit your taste preferences. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, they are a perfect option for a quick dinner, meal prep, or even as a healthy snack. The combination of protein and vegetables makes these patties a well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Enjoy making these patties and serving them to family or friends for a delightful, wholesome meal!