Ingredients

• Minced Meat: 700 grams
• Broccoli: 1 head (approx. 200 grams), finely chopped or grated
• Flour: 2 tablespoons
• Egg: 1 large
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Olive Oil: for frying
• Salt: to taste
• Black Pepper: to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Broccoli:
   • Begin by blanching the broccoli in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. This will soften the broccoli slightly and make it easier to mix into the patties. After boiling, drain the water and allow the broccoli to cool. Once cooled, finely chop or grate the broccoli into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 700 grams of minced meat, the finely chopped broccoli, 1 clove of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley.
3. Add the Binding Agents:
   • Add 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of flour to the mixture. The egg and flour will act as binding agents to help hold the patties together.
4. Season the Mixture:
   • Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Form the Patties

1. Shape the Patties:
   • Take a small amount of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and press it between your hands to form a patty. The size can be adjusted based on your preference, but smaller patties are easier to handle and cook more evenly. Repeat this process until all the mixture has been used up.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

1. Heat the Olive Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. You can cook in batches if needed.
2. Fry Until Golden Brown:
   • Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your patties.
3. Drain Excess Oil:
   • Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve Hot:
   • Serve the patties while they are still hot. They pair well with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also place them in a bun for a delicious, homemade burger.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Sugar: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of meat instead of minced beef?
Yes, this recipe is quite versatile. You can use ground chicken, turkey, or pork as an alternative to minced beef. Each meat will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but all work well.

2. What can I use as a substitute for flour?
If you are gluten-intolerant or prefer a low-carb option, you can replace flour with almond flour, oat flour, or even breadcrumbs. These substitutes will help bind the patties together just like regular flour.

3. How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The easiest way to ensure the patties are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one open to make sure it is no longer pink inside.

4. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time. Simply shape them and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Broccoli and Minced Meat Patties

1. Choose Lean Minced Meat:
   • While some fat is necessary for flavor, avoid very fatty meat as it may make the patties greasy. A 70-30 or 80-20 meat-to-fat ratio works best.
2. Don’t Overmix the Mixture:
   • Overmixing the ingredients can make the patties tough. Mix just enough to combine everything evenly.
3. Blanch the Broccoli:
   • Blanching the broccoli before chopping helps retain its color and ensures it is tender when mixed into the patties.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   • Fresh garlic, parsley, and quality minced meat make a huge difference in the flavor of the patties.
5. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan:
   • Frying too many patties at once can cause the oil temperature to drop, making the patties greasy rather than crispy. Cook in batches for the best results.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration:
  • Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing:
  • These patties freeze well. Place the uncooked patties on a tray and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
• Reheating:
  • To reheat, you can use an oven, stovetop, or microwave. If using the stovetop, heat them over low-medium heat to prevent them from drying out. For the oven, bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

These Broccoli and Minced Meat Patties are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a balanced meal. Combining tender, juicy minced meat with the fresh taste of broccoli, garlic, and parsley creates a perfect blend of flavors. They are easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed with various side dishes. Whether you’re preparing these for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, these patties are sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your household.

So, next time you’re looking for a creative way to cook minced meat, try these patties. They’re quick, tasty, and packed with goodness! Enjoy!