Air Fryer Crispy Broccoli Stems

Transform often-overlooked broccoli stems into a deliciously crispy snack with this air fryer recipe. These broccoli stem chips offer a delightful crunch, enhanced by a hint of your favorite seasonings. The air fryer method ensures even cooking, turning each slice into a perfect golden brown treat. By utilizing the stems, this recipe not only reduces waste but also provides a nutritious, low-carb snack option.

Servings: 4 | Cook Time: 12 minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large broccoli stems
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup almond flour (optional for breading)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a fresh kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Broccoli Stems: Trim the ends and peel the tough outer layer of the broccoli stems. Slice them into thin, even rounds, about ⅛ inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly.

  2. Season the Slices: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli slices with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. For an optional crispy coating, add almond flour and Parmesan cheese to the mix.

  3. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes.

  4. Arrange Slices in Basket: Place the seasoned broccoli stem slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.

  5. Air Fry Until Crisp: Cook the slices for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chips should be golden brown and crispy.

  6. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and drizzle with lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Tips

  • Uniform Thickness: Ensure the broccoli slices are of uniform thickness to avoid uneven cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this easily.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to unevenly cooked chips.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the chips a spicy kick.
  • Storage: Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy broccoli stems are a versatile snack that pairs well with a range of dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or spicy aioli. They also make a great side for grilled meats or fish. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

If you loved this and own a crockpot, try this Crockpot Cheesy Cauliflower and Broccoli Dip recipe!