Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded gouda cheese (8 ounces)
- 1 large egg, or 2 egg whites
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, or all-purpose flour
For Coating
- 1/2 cup cracker crumbs (optional, for dredging)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying
To Serve
- Your favorite sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Using an electric mixer or mixing by hand, combine the shredded gouda cheese, egg (or egg whites), and cornstarch (or all-purpose flour) in a large bowl. Mix until a soft, cohesive dough forms that can be shaped into balls.
- Shape and chill: Scoop approximately 2 teaspoons of the dough and roll it into a ball with your hands. If desired, roll each cheese ball in cracker crumbs to create an extra crispy coating. Place the formed balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to ensure they firm up and hold their shape during frying.
- Heat the oil: In a medium frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the cheese balls and heat it over high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C) for deep frying.
- Fry the cheese balls: Carefully add the chilled cheese balls to the hot oil. Fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown color, turning once to cook evenly on all sides. This should take about 30 to 60 seconds per side; be sure not to overcrowd the pan for even frying.
- Drain and serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried cheese balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Refrigerating the cheese balls before frying is crucial to help them hold their shape and prevent melting too quickly.
- Using cracker crumbs is optional but adds a desirable crispy texture.
- Maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked cheese balls.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
