Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam or Boil: If using fresh broccoli, steam or boil the florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed.
- Chop: Finely chop the broccoli florets. You can do this with a knife or by pulsing a few times in a food processor. You’re aiming for small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will serve as the base for your pancakes.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Add this to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Cheese
- Fold in the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and green onions into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a Pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush with a thin layer of olive oil or melt a bit of butter.
- Cook: For each pancake, ladle about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Flatten slightly with the back of the ladle. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, until the edges look set and bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat: Continue with the remaining batter, adding more oil or butter to the pan as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the cheesy broccoli pancakes hot. They’re delicious on their own or with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as grated carrots or zucchini, for even more nutritional value.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar and Parmesan are suggested, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella or Gouda for different flavors.
- Make-Ahead: These pancakes can be made in advance and reheated in a toaster oven or microwave. They also freeze well. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag.
Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Pancakes as a creative, tasty, and healthful addition to any meal, proving that pancakes can indeed be both delicious and nutritious!