Cheese and cheese curds

Delicious cheese balls - a quick and savory appetizer

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of quick and tasty cooking! Today I will share with you a simple and delicious recipe for cheese balls, which are perfect as an appetizer or a hearty breakfast. These balls are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and they are ideal to be enjoyed alongside fresh tomatoes or even as a snack when you crave something tasty.

A little history of cheese balls

Cheese balls are a culinary tradition found in various forms in many cultures. These snacks are often made from cheese, eggs, and flour, then fried or baked. It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted based on available ingredients and personal preferences. Over the years, cheese balls have become popular due to their simplicity, as well as the unique flavor they offer.

Necessary ingredients

- 200 g of cheese (in my recipe I used fresh cheese, but feta is an excellent choice)
- 150 g of cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- A bunch of fresh dill
- 100-150 g of flour
- Oil for frying

Preparing the cheese balls

1. Grate the cheese
Start by grating both the cheese and the cheese. If you use fresh cheese, make sure it has been salted for 12 hours so that it has a rich flavor and is not too salty. Grate them into a large bowl so you have enough space to add the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients
Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the bowl with the cheese. Dill adds a fresh aroma and pleasant taste, perfectly complementing the cheese. Then, add the baking powder, which will help the balls become fluffy.

3. Add the eggs
Beat the two eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the cheese mixture. Mix well to incorporate the eggs into the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together and provide a better texture to the balls.

4. Incorporate the flour
Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes homogeneous. The flour will provide structure to the balls, and the amount may vary depending on the moisture of the cheese used. Do not add salt, as the cheese already contains enough.

5. Form the balls
On a floured wooden board, form balls the size of a walnut from the obtained mixture. These balls should be slightly sticky but not excessively so. I made about 38 balls, but this number may vary depending on the size chosen.

6. Fry the balls
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the balls to achieve a crispy crust. Fry the balls for 2-3 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them over.

7. Drain excess oil
Once the balls are ready, remove them onto a paper towel to drain the excess oil. This step is essential to keep the balls light and crispy.

Serving suggestions

Cheese balls are excellent as an appetizer, but they can also be enjoyed for breakfast alongside fresh tomatoes and olives. You can also serve them with yogurt sauces or spicy sauces for an extra flavor boost. These balls are perfect for sharing at a family meal or at a party with friends.

Vegetarian option

If you want to make a vegetarian version of this recipe, you can replace the cheese with a mix of grated vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots. Add herbs for a more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use feta cheese?
Yes, feta cheese can be used, but it will add a saltier taste to the balls. Adjust the amount of salt in the recipe if you opt for feta.

2. How can I make these balls gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, use rice flour or other gluten-free alternatives. The texture may vary, but they will be just as delicious.

3. Can I bake the balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the balls at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes until golden. Make sure to place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Nutritional benefits

These cheese balls are rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, and the dill adds a supply of vitamins and minerals. They are also a good source of calcium, essential for bone health. Being fried, it is important to consume them in moderation, but when enjoyed alongside fresh vegetables, they become a balanced and tasty dish.

Enjoy this simple and delicious cheese ball recipe and turn every meal into a special moment! Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a craving, these balls will bring smiles and appreciation from everyone.