In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding a quick and delicious recipe that doesn’t break the bank is like finding a hidden gem. Enter the crispy charred parmesan broccoli—a dish so versatile it can serve as a side, a main course, or a delightful snack to satisfy those mid-afternoon cravings. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the explosion of flavor with every bite, thanks to its unique combination of parmesan and balsamic vinegar. In this blog, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of transforming humble broccoli into an unforgettable culinary delight using your trusty air fryer. Say goodbye to bland veggies and hello to a taste sensation that will have you coming back for more!
Preparing the Broccoli
The journey to creating crispy charred parmesan broccoli begins with selecting fresh broccoli. You’ll need two medium to large heads of broccoli to start. The process of preparing broccoli for this recipe is simple but ensures uniform cooking, which is key to achieving that perfect texture and flavor.
Stand the broccoli heads on their floret side and carefully trim around the core to remove the florets. This step is crucial as keeping the florets of similar sizes will ensure even cooking. Once you’ve managed that, turn your attention to the stems. The ends of the stems tend to be woody and are best discarded. However, don’t be too quick to throw away the whole stem; you can make use of the rest by trimming any outer layers that might taste bitter. Keep everything around the same size for consistent cooking.
Adding Garlic for Flavor
The role of garlic in this recipe cannot be understated. Use three cloves of garlic and peel them. Instead of chopping, create a paste using a microplane. This paste will more effectively coat the broccoli and infuse each bite with its aromatic flavor. The difference in taste from the garlic paste compared to chopped garlic is significant—trust us on this one!
Seasoning the Broccoli
Now we move to the heart of the seasoning—a mix of parmesan cheese, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Freshly grate 20 grams of parmesan cheese to add depth and savory notes to the broccoli. Drizzle one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and add another tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity that balances the flavors nicely. If balsamic isn’t to your taste, this is optional; the broccoli will still taste phenomenal without it. Season with salt and 15 cracks of fresh black pepper.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
When everything is well mixed, it’s time for the air fryer to work its magic. Give the broccoli a light spray with cooking oil to aid in creating that desirable crispy texture. Arrange the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking. Set your air fryer to manual cooking at 190°C (approximately 375°F), and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes.
Halfway through the cooking process, pause the air fryer and give the broccoli a good shake. This shake ensures that every piece cooks evenly and helps redistribute the cheese and seasonings that might have settled. Once shaken, continue cooking for the remainder of the time.
Finishing Touches
After the initial cooking time, open the air fryer and sprinkle a bit more parmesan cheese over the top. This additional layer of cheese will help to form a delectable crust on the broccoli. Put the broccoli back in the air fryer for another 5 minutes of cooking. This final touch is what gives the broccoli its irresistible crispiness and flavor.
Once the additional cooking time is up, transfer the crispy broccoli to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavors further. Add a final sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of sea salt flakes to taste.
Enjoying Your Creation
What you have before you now is a dish that’s full of texture and flavor. The nutty, crispy exterior of the broccoli contrasts beautifully with its tender interior. The parmesan cheese enhances the umami flavor, while the balsamic vinegar provides a subtle acidity that lifts the dish to new heights. This crispy charred parmesan broccoli is not the most glamorous looking dish, but its taste is nothing short of spectacular.
Enjoy this versatile dish as a side to complement your favorite mains or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying, healthy snack. It’s an easy and affordable way to elevate everyday broccoli into something truly special.
So, next time you find yourself needing a quick, delicious, and wallet-friendly dish, give this recipe a try. You’ll likely find yourself reaching for the air fryer more often, ready to transform everyday vegetables into extraordinary culinary delights.
