Veggie Nuggets

My son has never had a chicken nugget. Or any sort of nugget for that matter. So I wasn't too surprised when he didn't want to try these. That is how my boy is though... he also does not like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, or hot dogs. 

I think that if I could get him to just TRY one of these nuggets though, he'd like them. That is usually the way it goes. If I can trick him into thinking it is his idea to try one, I think he'll like them. Being a mother is all about strategy. 

If your little one does like nuggets, however, these are definitely worth a try! They are full of veggies and while they don't taste like chicken, they are delicious. I was in now way going to get out little animal shapes like they show in my cookbook, but by all means, if you have the time, go for it. This recipe comes from my Weelicious cookbook. I'll admit - it takes some work, but I now have a bunch of frozen veggie nuggets in a bag in the freezer ready to pop in the oven to heat up when I need them. Maybe one of the times I do, my toddler will actually try them. 

I like that the veggies are all steamed to retain all their nutrients. 

Chopped in the food processor

Mixed together

Spread out and frozen. Freezing these is important...they won't cut or hold up for breading if they aren't frozen.

I cut mine into squares. I got through half the nuggets before they defrosted and I had to freeze the rest before working with them.

My flour, egg, breadcrumb lineup. This was the most annoying step in the process. I'll have to think of a different way. Most of the coating just got stuck to my fingers while I breaded each little nugget. I know that is the way all breaded things are made, which is why I guess I generally don't bread things.

Ready for the oven

Ready for eating!

Despite the work, these ARE really really good. Maybe I'll try sweet potatoes next time. They have a nice crunch on the outside that would really appeal to a kid.

Most importantly, they are healthy! Look at those colorful veggies!

Baked Veggie Nuggets

2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
2 medium carrots, cut into cubes
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4-1/2 cup flour
2-3 large eggs, whisked
1-2 cups breadcrumbs, depending on how much sticks to your fingers
olive oil spray

Steam potatoes and carrots for 15 minutes, then add broccoli and steam another 5 minutes. Remove broccoli and carrots to a food processor, add corn, and process until finely chopped.

Mash potatoes in a bowl and add in veggies and spices. Mix until well combined.
Spread out on a parchment-paper lined cookie sheet to about 1/2" thick and freeze until solid, 1-2 hours.

Place flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in their own bowls. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with olive oil spray. Cut nuggets into desired shapes and then dredge in flour, then eggs, then breadcrumbs. Place on baking sheet. Spray tops with olive oil spray.

Preheat your broiler and bake the nuggets for just about 2 minutes on each side. You can also bake them at 450 degrees for 10 minutes.

You can freeze them and take them out when needed - just pop them in a 400 degree oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through and crunchy.