Air fryer broccoli

Air fryer broccoli

20 min
Have you ever wondered what to do with the broccoli stalk once you have cut off the florets? With our recipe for crispy air fryer broccoli, you need not wonder any longer. Use the stalk to make delicious broccoli fries seasoned with garlic and cheddar cheese and coated in panko breadcrumbs – giving you an irresistible and delightful savouriness and crunch.
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Instructions

  • Peel the outer layer of the broccoli stalk and cut the stalk into sticks (approximately 1 x 1 cm in thickness). Toss them with oil.
  • Mix cornflour, garlic powder, and salt, and coat the fries with the mixture. Add panko breadcrumbs and cheese.
  • Place the fries in an air fryer and bake the broccoli stalk fries for approximately 10-12 minutes at 200°C until they are golden and crispy.
Enjoy!
Tip

If you do not have an air fryer, do not despair! You can still enjoy these delicious, breaded broccoli fries by baking them in a regular oven. The process is slightly different, and while the fries may not turn out as crispy as when baked in an air fryer, they will still be delicious. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in a preheated oven at 220°C for 12-15 minutes or until crispy.

Tip

If you prefer a classic deep-fried texture, you can also fry the breaded broccoli fries in oil. Heat oil, for example, vegetable oil, in a deep pan or pot to about 175°C. Fry the stalks in batches until golden brown and crispy, drain on paper towels, and enjoy!

Questions about air frying broccoli

With an easy air fryer broccoli recipe, it is easy-peasy to make a crispy, flavourful, quick snack or side dish. To learn more about cooking broccoli in an air fryer, read our answers to the most frequently asked questions about it below.

How long does it take to cook broccoli in an air fryer?
The exact cooking time for air fryer broccoli depends on how crispy and browned you want it as well as the size of the fries. For broccoli stalks cut into sticks, air fry them for 10-12 minutes at 200°C. Thicker stalks may require additional time. It is crucial to monitor the cooking process and adjust the time based on your preference and the air fryer's performance. Remember to shake the basket or flip the broccoli fries halfway through or occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Can you air-fry frozen broccoli?
You can air-fry frozen broccoli un-breaded, but if breaded, we recommend fresh. Frozen broccoli put directly in the air fryer yields a deliciously crispy result, but if you try to bread it, it might turn out soggy. Frozen broccoli releases a lot of moisture both during thawing and cooking and if breaded, this moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly, resulting in a less-than-optimal crispy finish. So, for breaded dishes, fresh broccoli ensures better texture and adherence to the coating.
How to make broccoli crispy in an air fryer?
To get crispy broccoli, whether fries or florets, make sure they are dried after washing. Preheat the air fryer and arrange the broccoli in a single layer to ensure even cooking and achieve optimal crispiness. As such, the key to crispness is to avoid overcrowding. If your air fryer is small, this might entail cooking in batches. Remember to shake or stir the broccoli occasionally during cooking. Keep a close eye on the cooking time and adjust it based on your air fryer's performance, so you do not risk burning it.

Ingredients

Broccoli stalks (approx. 250 g)
2
Olive oil
1 tsp
Corn flour
1 tsp
Garlic powder
½ tsp
Coarse salt
¼ tsp
Panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp
Matured cheddar, finely grated
2 tbsp
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Breaded air fryer broccoli fries – easy, crispy, and quick

Crispy air fryer broccoli fries make for a delicious side dish to a myriad of meals, ranging from sandwiches, burgers, and wraps to roasted chicken, seafood, and barbecue dishes. The fact they are quick and easy to make is a great bonus. 

Making crispy broccoli in the air fryer helps concentrate and enhance the bright green vegetable’s natural flavours. As it cooks, the broccoli's inherent earthy and slightly bitter undertones become more pronounced, creating a well-rounded taste profile in combination with the homemade breading.

With panko and shredded cheese for a crisp and savoury touch

The panko breadcrumb coating provides a crispy and golden texture, while the broccoli inside retains a tender and slightly crisp bite. The combination of flavours is delightful. 

It tastes predominantly savoury, with the garlic powder and cheddar cheese adding a rich element. The garlic powder infuses the fries with a subtle flavour and a layer of depth, enhancing the overall taste. Meanwhile, the cheddar cheese adds a slightly salty and nutty note, balancing the natural sweetness of the broccoli beautifully.

Serve with smooth and velvety dip

Air fryer broccoli makes for great fries but as you know, fries only get better with dip. A classic dip for fries of any kind is chilli mayo made with both green chilli pepper and sriracha sauce. The result is a flavour-packed and highly dippable mayo that is incredibly fresh and packs a bit of heat too.

Another homemade dip you can try is jalapeno dip. This sour cream-based dipping sauce is incredibly rich and smooth with pickled jalapenos, lime zest, coriander, and a bit of honey.

Make it your own

To enhance the flavour of these already delicious panko-breaded air fryer broccoli fries, consider adding additional spices or seasonings. Onion powder, for instance, can contribute a savoury and slightly sweet flavour to complement the taste of garlic powder.

Another good option is smoked or sweet paprika, adding a touch of warmth and mild smokiness to the fries. Add cayenne pepper if you enjoy some heat and a spicy kick to keep things interesting.

We also recommend experimenting with dried herbs like parsley, dill, or coriander to add freshness and a herbaceous note. An Italian-inspired blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary can bring a delicious Mediterranean twist to the fries. Alternatively, fresh herbs can be sprinkled onto them after air-frying to give them a fresh boost.

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