Tuesday, October 04, 2011

vegan mofo :: noochy broccoli

Noochy Broccoli is a versatile side and a fun way to get kids [and picky adults] to eat their greens.

Of course, raw or lightly steamed vegetables are the most nutritious. This recipe from my new cookbook, however, requires you to cook the heck out of the broccoli in order to achieve a pureed texture. So consider it a guilty veggie pleasure. Despite the mush factor [which instantly makes this recipe kid-friendly], this cheesy broccoli mash is still a nutritional powerhouse, when compared, say, to the kinds of side dishes most people eat.  This is also an excellent, simple-to-prepare pasta and grain topper or dip. Depending on how much olive oil you use [if any], this dish can range from no-or-low fat to mildly decadent. Either way, this side is rich and filling.


Noochy Broccoli
  • 1 large bunch of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 5-6 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1 T soy sauce [Use more or less depending on salt content of your broth]
  • Up to ½ cup broth
  • Red pepper flakes [Optional]
  • Up to 1 T olive oil [Optional]
  • 4-5 T nutritional yeast
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Serves 4 as a side

Bring about ¼ cup of broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Toss in broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and red pepper, if using. Cover, lower heat to a simmer and steam-simmer for about 25 minutes or until completely mushy. (Check liquid level from time to time; you may need to add more broth.)


Pour everything into a food processor. Sprinkle in nutritional yeast and begin processing. Depending on your preferences, add more broth and/or olive oil until this mash reaches your desired consistency. (For a thicker mash, pulse and don’t add much liquid. For a saucier puree, process well and add enough liquid to make this puree smooth.)

Variations: Substitute cauliflower, broccoli rabe or brocco-flower for broccoli.

9 comments:

B.A.D. said...

This is brilliant. I might even get the boy to eat some greens with this!

Jenny said...

I've never seen anything like this before. I bet my kids would love it. I'm copying and pasting!

Tamara said...

Fabulous recipe! One of my go-to recipes for both broccoli and cauliflower. Very filling, yet very light.

Caitlin said...

woah! super yum! i love that the olive oil is optional;) such a healthy side, and i will definitely be making this!

vegan.in.brighton said...

Mmmm I love nooch & broc so this sounds perfect.

foodchain said...

What a smart idea! Looks like the perfect way to get picky eaters to eat their veggies. Also looks like the perfect dish for people who already love their broccoli, like meeee :)

julie hasson said...

Oh yum Dynise! I am going to make this soon. It looks fabulous.

Anonymous said...

Hi there -

I noticed you cook with wine a bit...and live in Philly, so wanted to reach out as I'm currently working with Robert Mondavi Winery to promote their Discover Wine Tour. I'd love to send more information and invite you to the event. Please let me know if you are interested and thanks!

Amy
Amy@grandcentralmarketing.com

Anonymous said...

Love broccoli and love nooch! Must try :)