Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Fried Goat Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines tangy goat cheese with sweet dried cherries and crunchy pecans. Coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect party snack or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces good quality goat cheese (divided into 3 small packages)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tablespoon sea salt, divided
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 cups canola oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Optional: Pomegranate balsamic vinegar for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare coating mixtures: Place the flour in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine the egg white with 2 tablespoons of water. In a third bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Set all three bowls aside.
- Form goat cheese balls: Roll the goat cheese into 24 balls about 1 tablespoon in size each. As you roll each ball, gently press in some dried tart cherries and chopped pecans to incorporate them into the cheese.
- Chill the balls: Place the goat cheese balls in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm them up and make them easier to handle for frying.
- Coat the balls: Dredge each chilled goat cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it completely in the egg mixture ensuring full coverage, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko and sea salt mixture. Do not skimp on the panko to get a crispy crust.
- Heat oil: Heat the canola oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use a deep pan to prevent oil splatter and maintain a steady temperature without boiling the oil.
- Fry the balls: Working in small batches, carefully place 2 to 3 goat cheese balls into the hot oil. Fry for about 30 seconds or until the coating is crisp and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a cookie rack or paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fried goat cheese balls warm, optionally drizzled with pomegranate balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy finish. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the goat cheese balls before frying is essential to keep their shape and prevent melting too quickly in hot oil.
- Use a deep saucepan or fryer to safely contain the oil and prevent splattering.
- Panko crumbs provide a superior crunchy texture compared to regular bread crumbs.
- Adjust the amount of cherries and pecans to taste or omit if preferred.
- Serve immediately after frying as they are best enjoyed warm and crispy.
- If desired, substitute canola oil with a neutral oil suitable for frying such as vegetable or peanut oil.
