If you're looking for a delicious snack that's easy to make and oh-so-satisfying, look no further than cheese balls! These crispy, cheesy treats are perfect for parties, movie nights or any time you want a snack that's both savoury and satisfying.
Overview of Cheese Balls
Cheese balls are a popular snack that originated in the United States. They are typically made with a mixture of cheese, flour, and spices that are rolled into balls and deep-fried until crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. They can be served as an appetiser, a snack or even a main course.
Nutritional Values of Cheese Balls
Cheese balls are a rich and indulgent snack, so it's important to enjoy them in moderation. One serving of cheese balls (about four balls) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the recipe and the size of the balls. They are also high in fat, sodium and cholesterol, so it's best to limit your intake if you're watching your diet.
Ingredients for Cheese Balls
For a cheese balls recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
● 2 cups grated cheese
● 1 cup all-purpose flour
● 1/2 cup milk
● 2 tbsp corn starch
● 1 tsp garlic powder
● 1 tsp paprika
● Salt and pepper to taste
● Oil for frying
How to Make Cheese Balls Step-by-Step
● In a bowl, mix together the grated cheese, flour, corn starch, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper until well combined.
● Gradually add the milk to the mixture and mix well until a soft dough forms.
● Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
● Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
● Roll the chilled dough into small balls and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
● Fry the cheese balls until golden brown on the outside.
● Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
● Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Make Cheese Balls Healthier
While cheese balls are undeniably delicious, they are not the healthiest snack option out there. If you want to make them a bit healthier, try these tips:
● Use low-fat cheese instead of regular cheese to reduce the fat content.
● Bake the cheese balls instead of frying them to reduce the calorie and fat content.
● Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a bit more fibre and nutrition.
Expert Tips for Best Cheese Balls
Here are some expert tips to help you make the best cheese balls possible:
● Use a combination of different cheeses to give your cheese balls a more complex flavour.
● Experiment with different spices and seasonings to find the combination that you like best.
● Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling into balls to make it easier to work with.
● Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the cheese balls, as this can cause them to cook unevenly.
Recipe Card
Here's a handy recipe card with the eggless cheese balls recipe:
Ingredients
● 2 cups grated cheese
● 1 cup all-purpose flour
● 1/2 cup milk
● 2 tbsp corn starch
● 1 tsp garlic powder
● 1 tsp paprika
● Salt and pepper to taste
● Oil for frying
Instructions
● In a bowl, mix together the grated cheese, flour, corn starch, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper until well combined.
● Gradually add the milk to the mixture and mix well until a soft dough forms.
● Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
● Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
● Roll the chilled dough into small balls and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
● Fry the cheese balls until golden brown on the outside.
● Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
● Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Cheese balls are a delicious and satisfying snack that are perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you can enjoy all the cheesy goodness without any of the eggs. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation and experiment with different ingredients and spices to find your perfect flavour combination.
FAQs
Can I make cheese balls without using flour?
Flour is an essential ingredient in most cheese ball recipes, as it helps to bind the cheese together and give the balls their shape. However, you can experiment with using other types of flour, such as almond flour or chickpea flour, if you're looking for a gluten-free option.
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese you like for this recipe, although softer cheeses may not hold their shape as well as harder cheeses. Some good options include cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan.
How long do cheese balls stay fresh?
Cheese balls are best when eaten fresh and hot, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the cheese balls in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through.