Cheese balls

Cheese Balls - A Crispy and Savory Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

If you're looking for a quick and delicious snack, cheese balls are the perfect choice. These little cheese gems are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them ideal to serve as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal between lunch and dinner. With a history spanning decades, these balls have been loved in many cultures for their versatility.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 250 g cheese (preferably cheddar, but you can experiment with other types)
- 250 g flour
- 250 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (about 1 liter, depending on the pan used)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps to better homogenize the dough. Grate the cheddar using a large grater to obtain pieces that will melt evenly and give a rich flavor to the balls.

2. Beating the eggs:
In a medium bowl, beat the two eggs with a whisk. It's important to mix them well to incorporate air, which will make your balls fluffier.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder and salt. This step will help eliminate any lumps and ensure a fine texture of the dough.

4. Combining the ingredients:
Add the beaten eggs to the flour mixture and mix gently. Then, start adding the milk gradually, mixing constantly. Continue to add milk until the dough becomes homogeneous and pulls away from the spoon. Don’t worry if it seems a bit thicker than pancake batter; this is the desired consistency.

5. Adding the cheese:
Once the dough is homogeneous, add the grated cheese and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Heating the oil:
In a deep pan, pour the oil, making sure it is about 5 cm high. Heat the oil over medium to high heat. It’s important to test if the oil is hot enough before you start frying. You can do this by dropping a small amount of dough into the oil; if it rises quickly to the surface and starts to sizzle, the oil is ready.

7. Frying the balls:
Using a teaspoon, take portions of the dough and carefully place them in the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; otherwise, the oil temperature will drop, and the balls will not fry evenly. Fry the balls for 2-3 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Watch them closely, as they can fry very quickly.

8. Draining excess oil:
Once the balls are fried, remove them with a spatula and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This step is essential to keep the balls crispy.

9. Serving:
Serve the balls hot, alongside a yogurt or garlic sour cream dip, or even with a spicy sauce if you like a touch of adventure in your dishes! These balls are perfect for enjoying at a party or simply to treat your family.

Helpful tips for a perfect recipe:
- Experiment with different types of cheese to discover combinations you like more. For example, feta or mozzarella can add an interesting twist.
- You can also add herbs like dill, oregano, or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the balls in the oven. Shape the balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brushed with a little oil, and bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use lactose-free cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese with a lactose-free version, and the dough will work just as well.

2. Can I freeze the cheese balls?
Sure! You can freeze the fried balls and reheat them in the oven when you want to serve them again.

3. What can I serve with the cheese balls?
These balls are delicious alongside a fresh salad or with a cold blonde beer for a perfect pairing!

In conclusion, cheese balls are not only a delicious snack but also an excellent way to enjoy cooking at home. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with these little crispy delights! Enjoy your meal!