Turn broccoli stems into tasty, zero-waste snacks

Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable, yet we typically consume only the florets, overlooking the stem completely. However, the stem is rich in flavor and nutrients. Instead of discarding it, try making sticks out of it. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and requires just a few ingredients you likely have on hand.

The secret to perfect sticks lies in preparing the broccoli stem properly. After grating, thoroughly drain any excess water; this ensures the mixture has the ideal consistency and allows the sticks to bake evenly. You can also experiment with seasonings: I like to add oregano and smoked paprika, but you can use other spices too. I opt for cornmeal, which is gluten-free, but regular wheat flour works just as well.

Ingredients:

                                      
• 1 broccoli stem
• 1 egg
• 1.8 oz grated mozzarella or Parmesan
• 5.3 oz cornmeal or wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

                      
1. Peel the broccoli stem to remove the tough outer skin, and grate it using a grater with large holes.
2. Place the grated stem on a clean kitchen cloth or paper towel and squeeze out the excess water.
3. In a bowl, combine the grated and drained broccoli stem with flour, egg, grated cheese, two tablespoons of olive oil, and spices. Add baking powder to help the sticks rise.
4. Knead the mixture until it forms a pliable dough. If it's too dry, add a little water or milk.
5. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into thin sticks. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the sticks with olive oil and bake at 355 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until they are golden and crispy.