Description

Craving a breakfast that breaks the sweet mold and delivers bold, savory flavors with a protein punch? Savory High-Protein Waffles combine the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the zesty kick of garlic, onion, and peppers, plus a nutty depth from almond flour and Parmesan.

Ingredients

Scale

Waffle Batter:

¾ cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the waffles.
½ cup almond flour (or more all-purpose): Adds nutty flavor and nutrition.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light, fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory, aromatic depth.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick.
¼ teaspoon salt (optional): Balances flavors (omit if cottage cheese is salty).
1 cup cottage cheese (whole milk): Adds protein and a creamy, moist texture.
3 large eggs: Bind the batter and add richness.
¼ cup milk: Adjusts batter consistency.
3 tablespoons avocado oil: Contributes to crispness and flavor.
¾ cup finely chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño: Adds crunch and savory or spicy flavor.
1 tablespoon finely chopped chives (or green onions, plus more for garnish): Brings fresh, oniony notes.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and cheesy richness.

Optional Toppings/Fillings:

Hot honey: For a sweet-spicy drizzle.
Fried or poached egg: Adds extra protein and richness.
Smoked salmon or crispy prosciutto: For a luxurious touch.
Sautéed spinach or arugula: Adds fresh, earthy greens.
Avocado slices: For creamy texture.
Roasted tomatoes or grilled mushrooms: For deep, savory flavors.
Hot sauce or herby yogurt sauce: For a spicy or creamy finish.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Cottage Cheese: Boosts protein and keeps waffles moist without extra fat.
Almond Flour: Adds nutty flavor and a nutrient boost, complementing the savory profile.
Green Peppers/Jalapeños and Chives: Provide crunch and fresh, savory notes.
Parmesan: Enhances umami and ties the savory flavors together.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Substitute with full-fat Greek yogurt or ricotta for similar moisture and protein.
Almond Flour: Replace with more all-purpose flour, oat flour, or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Milk: Use dairy (whole, skim, or 2%) or non-dairy (almond, oat, soy) milk.
Avocado Oil: Swap with olive oil, melted butter, or coconut oil.
Green Bell Pepper/Jalapeño: Use diced zucchini, spinach, or omit for a milder flavor.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cottage cheese or yogurt, flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), non-dairy milk, and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
Cheesy Waffles: Increase Parmesan to ½ cup or add ¼ cup shredded cheddar to the batter.
Spicy Waffles: Use jalapeños instead of bell peppers and add a pinch of cayenne.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon salt (optional), 1 cup cottage cheese, 3 large eggs, ¼ cup milk, 3 tablespoons avocado oil, ¾ cup finely chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño, 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Finely chop the green bell pepper or jalapeño and chives.
Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions.

Tip: Use whole milk cottage cheese for the creamiest texture; drain if watery to avoid a runny batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon salt (if using).

Tip: Whisk well to evenly distribute the baking powder and seasonings for a consistent texture and flavor.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a blender, combine 1 cup cottage cheese, 3 large eggs, and ¼ cup milk.
Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, ensuring no cottage cheese curds remain.
Add 3 tablespoons avocado oil and blend briefly to incorporate.

Tip: Blend thoroughly for a smooth batter; add 1-2 tablespoons more milk if the batter seems too thick.

Step 4: Combine and Fold

Pour the blended wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fold in ¾ cup finely chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese with a spatula.

Tip: Mix until no dry flour remains to keep waffles tender; fold veggies and cheese gently to distribute evenly.

Step 5: Cook Waffles

Lightly grease the preheated waffle iron with oil or non-stick spray.
Scoop about ⅓ cup batter into each waffle cavity (adjust based on your waffle iron’s size).
Cook for 3-6 minutes, or until golden and crisp (cooking time varies by waffle iron; check for a golden-brown color and steam subsiding).
Carefully remove waffles and keep warm on a plate or in a low oven (200°F/93°C).

Tip: Avoid opening the waffle iron too early to ensure crisp waffles; cook in batches if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve waffles hot with your choice of toppings, such as a drizzle of hot honey, a fried or poached egg, smoked salmon, sautéed greens, avocado slices, roasted tomatoes, grilled mushrooms, hot sauce, or herby yogurt sauce.
Garnish with extra chopped chives for a fresh touch.

Tip: Serve immediately for the crispiest texture; layer toppings generously for a complete meal