Broccoli Cheese Bites

 

INGREDIENTS:

• 5 cups vegetable oil for frying
• 1 (16 ounce) package chopped frozen broccoli, thawed and drained
• 4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 3 1/2 cups dry bread crumbs
• salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oil in deep-fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Place broccoli in a medium saucepan with 1 cup boiling water. Return to a boil. Cook covered until firm but tender, about 5 minutes.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the Cheddar cheese. Mix in the broccoli. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken approximately 15 minutes.
In a medium bowl, mix the bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Spread the mixture onto a large piece of wax paper.
Form the broccoli cheese mixture into balls and roll in the bread crumb mixture until thoroughly coated.
Deep fry the balls until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.