Potato dumplings with cheese

Potato cheese balls are a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for days when you want to indulge in a familiar and soothing taste. This dish is versatile and can be served for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer at a party. Whether you're making them for family or friends, these balls are always welcome. Plus, they are easy to make and will delight your senses.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 200 g cottage cheese (slightly salted)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Flour (for coating)
- Oil (for frying)

Preparation:

1. Boiling the vegetables: Start by peeling the potatoes and carrots. Place them in a large pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Boil over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes until soft. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are done.

2. Mashing the vegetables: Once boiled, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Then, mash them separately using a fork or potato masher. It is important not to make a puree, but to keep a bit of texture.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the cottage cheese, sour cream, pepper, sweet paprika, basil, dill, and parsley. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This mixture will add a special flavor to your balls.

4. Combining the ingredients: Add the egg and cheese mixture over the mashed potatoes and carrots. Stir everything with a spatula or your hands (make sure they are clean!) until the ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Forming the balls: With damp hands, take a portion of the mixture and shape it into balls. Then, lightly coat them in flour and flatten them slightly with the palm of your hand. This step helps achieve a crispy crust during frying.

6. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the balls; otherwise, they will stick to the bottom of the pan. Fry them on both sides for 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Then, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Serving: These potato cheese balls pair perfectly with a fresh Tzatziki sauce. You can make the sauce by mixing yogurt, grated cucumbers, garlic, dill, and a pinch of salt. This combination will add a refreshing taste and perfectly complement the flavor of the balls.

Practical tips:
- Vegetarian option: You can add chopped vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to the potato mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Oven-baked balls: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the balls in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them with a little olive oil. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- Freezing: These balls can be frozen. After frying and cooling, place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer. When you want to consume them, thaw them in the refrigerator and then fry them again to reheat.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
These balls have a moderate calorie content, with about 250 calories per serving. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, while cottage cheese provides protein. Carrots add vitamins and antioxidants, while the greens contribute to fiber and nutrient intake.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, you can replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste and vibrant color.
- What other sauces go well? Besides Tzatziki sauce, you can serve the balls with tomato sauce or yogurt sauce with garlic for an extra flavor boost.
- Can I make them without eggs? Yes, you can use an egg substitute (such as banana puree or applesauce) to make the recipe vegan.

With this potato cheese ball recipe, you'll bring a touch of joy to every meal. Don't forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!