Broccoli and Cauliflower Waffled Fritters

I’ve often said feeding kids is about marketing so here’s another shining example of that message: “Hey kids, look at these cheesy waffles!” In reality, they’re fritters made with broccoli and cauliflower but who’s checking? Ok, we know who’s checking but, like a pancake, finding a waffle on their plate makes kids feel like they’ve just met up with a dear, old friend at the table. As for my pal in the kitchen, it’s definitely my waffle maker. In the past few years, the appliance that used to sit in an unreachable cabinet has risen in the ranks to be on par with my blender (bring on quick dinner sauces) and my slow cooker (no need for explanation) because waffling foods is fun, healthy and easy. Scarlett is now actually disappointed if I serve her a grilled cheese that hasn’t been browned and crisped on our waffle machine. Same with French toast. What I really love about using my waffle machine is that I get the same crispy, brown goodness as being fried in a pan with out using all the fats like oil or butter. Healthier but just as yummy!

Witness these fritters. You can practically hear the crisp of these lovelies, and they make a great dinner side. They can also be the main event in a school lunch. Yes, friends, we are still delivering lunch ideas at the end of May! Even though we only have enough brain power to have a quick cry before we jam down the lid of a lunch bin containing a stale bagel that hasn’t been sliced or dressed, we’re still trying to bring you fresh lunch ideas. So wipe those tears, drag out your waffle maker and get some fritters in the fridge. You’re days will certainly be brighter. And that’s not marketing I’m using here. It’s fact.

Photo by Ashley van der Laan