Introduce a fun and tasty way to get your kids to love their veggies with our Homemade Veggie Tots! These bite-sized delights are a fantastic alternative to traditional tater tots, packed with a nutritious blend of vegetables. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they're perfect for a snack, side dish, or even a kid-friendly meal. Dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4-6
- Serving Size: 6-8 tots
Ingredients
- Mixed Vegetables (carrots, zucchini, broccoli): 500 grams (1.1 pounds), finely grated
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Breadcrumbs: 100 grams (0.22 pounds)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 50 grams (0.11 pounds)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Olive Oil: for frying
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prep Vegetables: Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated vegetables using a clean cloth.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the vegetables, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form Tots: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized tots.
- Cook: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the tots until golden brown on all sides.
- Drain: Place the cooked tots on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve warm with a dipping sauce like ketchup or ranch dressing.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Vegetable Options: Experiment with different vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower.
- Crispiness: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the tots at 200°C (400°F) until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these veggie tots in advance? Yes, prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Fry or bake just before serving.
- How can I make these gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal as a substitute.
- Can I freeze these tots? Absolutely! Freeze them before frying or baking, and cook directly from frozen when ready to serve.