Step 1

Steam broccoli until slightly softened. Let cool.

Step 2

Finely chop broccoli. You want the pieces to be 1/4-inch or less. Place in a large bowl.

Step 3

Add cheese, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 egg to bowl with broccoli. Stir well.

Step 4

Use your hands to shape mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball. You should get 12-14.

Step 5

Place balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 6

Place flour in a bowl.

Step 7

Place the 2 lightly beaten eggs in a second bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon water.

Step 8

Place remaining 2 cups Panko crumbs in a third bowl.

Step 9

Pour about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat oil to 375 degrees. For best results use a thermometer.

Step 10

Remove broccoli balls from refrigerator, coat in flour, dip in egg mixture, and then coat in Panko crumbs.

Step 11

Fry about 4 balls at a time cooking until golden brown on all sides.

Step 12

Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.