Cauliflower Broccoli Tots Recipe

Cauliflower: Finely chopped to create a smooth texture for the tots.

Broccoli: Finely chopped to blend well with the cauliflower.

Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture to the tots.

Nutritional yeast: Provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Onion: Adds a savory taste to the mixture.

Garlic: Minced to infuse the tots with a rich flavor.

Ground flaxseed: Acts as a binding agent when mixed with water.

Water: Used to thicken the flaxseed mixture.

When chopping the cauliflower and broccoli, make sure to cut them into very fine pieces. This ensures that the tots hold together well and have a uniform texture. Using a food processor can speed up this process and give you more consistent results.

• cauliflower - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture when finely chopped and can provide a mild flavor that complements the broccoli.

• broccoli - Substitute with spinach: Spinach can be finely chopped and offers a similar nutritional profile, adding a different but pleasant flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the ingredients together and is a gluten-free alternative.

• nutritional yeast - Substitute with ground sunflower seeds: Ground sunflower seeds can provide a nutty flavor and some additional protein.

• chopped onion - Substitute with chopped leek: Leeks offer a similar texture and a slightly milder flavor compared to onions.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.

• ground flaxseed - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can also act as a binding agent when mixed with water, similar to ground flaxseed.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a bit more flavor to the mixture compared to plain water.

• Allow the cauliflower broccoli tots to cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.

• Store the tots in an airtight container. Use a container that fits the tots snugly to minimize air exposure, which can affect texture and flavor.

• Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers of tots if stacking them. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easier to grab a few at a time.

• Refrigerate the tots for up to 4 days. They maintain their best texture and flavor within this timeframe.

• For longer storage, freeze the tots. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Reheat the tots directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

• Avoid microwaving the tots, as this can make them soggy. For the best texture, always reheat in the oven or air fryer.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cauliflower broccoli tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method will help retain their original texture and flavor.

• Air Fryer Method: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will give you a quick and crispy result.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil. Place the tots in the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a nice golden crust.

• Microwave Method: Place the tots on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method might make the tots a bit softer compared to other methods.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tots on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they are evenly reheated and crispy. This method is great for small batches.

• Oven: Used to bake the tots at the specified temperature of 400°F (200°C)

• Small bowl: Used to mix the ground flaxseed and water to create the flaxseed mixture

• Large bowl: Used to combine all the ingredients including cauliflower, broccoli, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, garlic, and the flaxseed mixture

• Baking sheet: Used to place the formed tots on for baking

• Parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the tots from sticking and to make cleanup easier

• Knife: Used to finely chop the cauliflower, broccoli, and onion

• Cutting board: Surface used for chopping the vegetables

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the cauliflower, broccoli, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and water

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the ground flaxseed

• Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic cloves

• Mixing spoon: Used to mix all the ingredients together in the large bowl

Pre-chop veggies: Use pre-chopped cauliflower and broccoli from the store to save time on preparation.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop the cauliflower, broccoli, and onion using a food processor instead of chopping by hand.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half of the tots for a quick snack or meal later.

Parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Pre-mix flaxseed: Mix the flaxseed and water ahead of time and store in the fridge to save a few minutes.