Potato dumplings with cheese

Potato cheese balls - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Welcome to the savory world of potato cheese balls! This recipe is a perfect combination of the creamy texture of potatoes and the rich flavor of cheese, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. Potato balls are a versatile dish that can be easily adapted and will surely impress anyone who tastes them.

A brief history of the recipe

Potato balls have a long tradition in kitchens around the world, being an excellent way to use simple and accessible ingredients. This recipe is inspired by various potato dishes but adds a modern twist by including cheese, which deepens the flavors and provides a soft texture. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as a main course, potato balls have the power to bring a smile to anyone's face.

Ingredients

- 1 kg red potatoes
- 400 g cottage cheese (or feta cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- Salt, to taste (be mindful of salty cheese)
- Chili powder, to taste (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Cumin, to taste
- A bunch of parsley, finely chopped
- A bunch of dill, finely chopped
- Breadcrumbs, for coating
- Oil for frying

Useful tips for ingredients

1. Potatoes: Opt for red potatoes as they have a creamy texture that holds up well after boiling, but you can also use other varieties like white or yellow potatoes.
2. Cheese: Choose fresh cottage cheese for a mild flavor or feta for a stronger aroma. If using salty cheese, adjust the amount of salt you add to the mixture.
3. Herbs: Dill and parsley add a fresh taste. You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or coriander, depending on your preferences.

Preparation technique

Step 1: Boiling the potatoes

- Wash the potatoes well and place them in a large pot, covering them with water. Boil them with the skin on until soft, about 20-25 minutes.
- Check if they are ready by inserting a fork into the potatoes. If it slides in easily, they are perfect!
- Remove them from the water and let them cool slightly, then peel and mash them as for puree.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture

- In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes. Add salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder if you want a hint of spice.
- Beat the eggs as for an omelet and add them to the mashed potatoes, mixing well.
- Grate the cheese on a large grater and incorporate it into the mixture.
- Add the flour and mix until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
- Finely chop the dill and parsley and incorporate them into the mixture.

Step 3: Forming the balls

- With wet hands, take a portion of the mixture and form flattened balls.
- Dip each ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring it is well coated.

Step 4: Frying

- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (you can check by adding a small piece of the mixture - if it sizzles, it's ready), add the balls a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan.
- Fry them on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serving

- Remove the balls onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. You can serve them hot or cold, alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, which adds a refreshing contrast.

Serving suggestions

These delicious balls can be enjoyed:

- With yogurt sauce or sour cream mixed with dill and garlic.
- Alongside a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers for a light and fresh lunch.
- As an appetizer at a dinner with friends, accompanied by a glass of dry white wine.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I freeze the balls?
Yes! You can freeze the un-fried balls, and when you want to consume them, fry them directly from the freezer.

2. What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
You can use feta cheese or even mozzarella cheese for a different texture.

3. How can I make the balls healthier?
You can bake the balls in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Nutritional benefits

Potato cheese balls are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins. Potatoes provide energy, while cheese contributes proteins necessary for cell regeneration. Dill and parsley add antioxidants, and olive oil (if you choose to use it for frying) brings healthy fatty acids.

Conclusion

Potato cheese balls are a simple yet flavorful recipe that will enrich any meal. With a little creativity, you can customize the recipe to your preferences, turning it into a unique dish. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy cooking together! Bon appétit!