Yummy Broccoli Kugel: A Savory Delight That Redefines Comfort Food

There are some dishes that, with just one bite, transport you back to a cherished memory. For me, this Yummy Broccoli Kugel is one of those culinary anchors. I recall my grandmother, a woman whose kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of baking, making a version of this that was both rustic and utterly delicious. She’d serve it warm, its golden-brown crust giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. This recipe, adapted from the talented Giora Shimoni, captures that very essence, a testament to how a humble vegetable can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. It’s a dish that reminds me that sometimes, the most rewarding meals are the ones that require a little extra love and attention.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour
• Servings: 9
• Yield: 1 8×8 inch pie
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This kugel achieves its unique texture and depth of flavor through a thoughtful combination of simple, wholesome ingredients.

• 2 pounds frozen broccoli
• 5 large eggs
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 tablespoon onion soup mix
• 1/2 tablespoon chicken soup powder

Ingredient Notes:

• When it comes to the mayonnaise, I’ve found that using full-fat mayonnaise yields the most consistently delicious results, providing a richer texture and flavor. While I’ve experimented with low-fat versions, they can sometimes lead to a slightly less satisfying outcome.
• The frozen broccoli is key here for ease and consistent texture, as it’s already softened and ready to be mashed.

Equipment Needed

To bring this Yummy Broccoli Kugel to life, you’ll need a few standard kitchen tools:

• A large pot for boiling broccoli
• A colander for draining
• A sturdy fork or potato masher
• A large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• An 8 x 8 inch baking pan
• Oven mitts

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful Broccoli Kugel that will impress your family and friends.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare the broccoli: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of water to a rolling boil. Add the 2 pounds of frozen broccoli. Cook the broccoli until it is soft enough to be easily mashed with a fork. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your stove and pot.
3. Drain and mash the broccoli: Once the broccoli is tender, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Return the drained broccoli to the empty pot or transfer it to a large bowl. Using a sturdy fork or a potato masher, mash the broccoli until it forms a coarse puree. Some small florets are fine; they add lovely texture.
4. Combine the ingredients: To the mashed broccoli, add the 5 large eggs, 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 finely chopped onion, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 cup whole wheat flour, 1/2 tablespoon onion soup mix, and 1/2 tablespoon chicken soup powder.
5. Mix thoroughly: Using a spoon or spatula, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no dry pockets of flour or spice. Ensure the onion is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Prepare the baking pan: Lightly grease your 8 x 8 inch baking pan. You can use butter, oil, or cooking spray for this.
7. Pour and bake: Pour the broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out to create a smooth, level surface.
8. Bake the kugel: Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the kugel comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and set.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Yummy Broccoli Kugel from good to exceptional, consider these culinary insights:

• Ensuring broccoli tenderness: The key to a smooth kugel is properly cooked broccoli. If it’s not soft enough, it will be difficult to mash and will result in a stringy texture in your kugel. Don’t be afraid to cook it a little longer than you might for a side dish.
• Draining is crucial: Make sure to drain the broccoli very well. Excess water can make the kugel soggy. Gently pressing down on the broccoli in the colander can help remove more moisture.
• Flavor boosters: The onion soup mix and chicken soup powder are concentrated flavor bombs. They add a savory depth that is hard to replicate with individual spices. Ensure you use the recommended amounts; too much can make the kugel overly salty.
• Even baking: If your oven tends to have hot spots, you might consider rotating the pan halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
• Testing for doneness: The “knife test” is reliable. If you insert a knife into the very center and it comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it, your kugel is ready.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Yummy Broccoli Kugel is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

• Serving: This kugel is best served warm, fresh from the oven. It makes a fantastic side dish for roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty beef stew. It can also stand on its own as a satisfying vegetarian main course, perhaps accompanied by a fresh green salad. Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire kugel (or slices) back into a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for this delicious Broccoli Kugel:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	163.3 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	9.7 g	14 %
Saturated Fat	1.9 g	9 %
Cholesterol	122.6 mg	40 %
Sodium	501.9 mg	20 %
Total Carbohydrate	14.2 g	4 %
Dietary Fiber	3.7 g	14 %
Sugars	3.6 g	14 %
Protein	7.2 g	14 %

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to explore these variations:

• For a Gluten-Free Version: You can attempt to substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
• Adding Cheese: For an extra layer of decadence, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese into the mixture before baking.
• Herbal Notes: Freshly chopped parsley or chives can be added to the mixture for a brighter, herbaceous note.
• Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be added to the batter.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can. You’ll need to steam or boil about 2 pounds of fresh broccoli florets until very tender, then drain and mash them as per the instructions.

Q: My kugel came out a bit too moist. What did I do wrong?
A: This is likely due to not draining the broccoli thoroughly enough after cooking, or using a mayonnaise that had too much added liquid. Ensure the broccoli is very well-drained, and consider using a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise.

Q: How can I make this kugel more flavorful?
A: The onion soup mix and chicken soup powder are potent flavor enhancers. Ensure you’re using them as specified. You could also sauté the onion finely and add it to the mixture for a fresher onion flavor, or add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the broccoli mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. However, the kugel is best baked and served fresh for optimal texture.

Q: What makes this kugel so moist and rich?
A: The combination of eggs, mayonnaise, and the natural moisture from the broccoli contributes to its signature moist and rich texture.

Final Thoughts

This Yummy Broccoli Kugel is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a dish that proves that simple ingredients, prepared with care, can create something truly memorable. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting side dish or a light main, it’s bound to become a favorite in your repertoire. I encourage you to give it a try, savor its deliciousness, and perhaps even create some new cherished memories in your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback or any creative twists you discover – I’m always eager to hear how this delightful kugel fares in other culinary adventures!