Andy Montoya
Vegetable cheese balls are a delicious snack or appetiser that can be made in a variety of ways. They are easy to prepare and can be baked or fried. The basic ingredients include potatoes, vegetables, cheese, and various seasonings. The balls are usually coated in breadcrumbs or nuts and can be served with dips, crackers, or vegetables. This versatile dish can be made ahead of time and is perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
Characteristics and Values Table for What's Cooking Vegetable Cheese Balls:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Appetizer, Snack |
| Cuisine | Indian, European (similar to croquettes), Caribbean (similar to papas rellenas) |
| Texture | Crispy and golden on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside |
| Ingredients | Potatoes, cheese, gram flour/chickpea flour/corn starch, green onion, pecans, cream cheese, herbs, spices, breadcrumbs, vegetables (onion, corn kernels, green peas, broccoli, cauliflower) |
| Calories | 134 per ball |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Make-Ahead | Can be made up to a week in advance |
| Serving Size | 1 veggie cheese ball |
| Yield | 18 mini cheese balls |
| Cooking Method | Deep-fried, Baked |
| Serving Suggestions | Crackers, pretzels, vegetables, dips, marinara sauce, tomato ketchup |
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What You'll Learn
Baked vegetable cheese balls recipe
These baked vegetable cheese balls are a great snack or appetiser, and are easy to make. They are crispy and golden on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and are baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- Vegetables of your choice (avoid frozen carrots, spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber, frozen peppers, and onions as they tend to leave moisture when baked, making the balls mushy)
- Potatoes
- Cheese (Monterey Jack, Marbled Pepper, ricotta, cheddar, mozzarella, or any semi-firm cheese)
- Oregano
- Salt
- Nuts (optional)
- Gram flour (optional)
- Black pepper (optional)
Method
- Boil the potatoes until they are completely cooked. Peel them and mash them in a mixing bowl. Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature before adding the other ingredients.
- Chop your chosen vegetables and add them to the mashed potatoes.
- Add oregano and salt to taste.
- Shred or cut your chosen cheese into small cubes and add to the mixture.
- Mix all the ingredients well.
- Make evenly sized balls of the mixture and arrange them on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper.
- Spray some non-stick spray and place the tray in a preheated oven at 350 F/ 180 C.
- Bake for 15 minutes, turning them over once after 7-8 minutes.
- Remove the cheese balls from the oven once they are golden brown.
- Serve with your favourite marinara sauce or tomato ketchup.
You can also coat the cheese balls in nuts if desired. Simply roll the balls in finely chopped nuts and press them gently to coat all sides. Cover the cheese balls in cling wrap and refrigerate for about an hour to allow them to firm up.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked vegetable cheese balls!
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How to serve cheese balls
Cheese balls are a delicious snack or appetiser that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some tips on how to serve them:
Preparation
Before serving, it is important to prepare the cheese balls properly. You can deep fry, air fry, or bake them. Deep frying gives them a crispy texture, while air frying and baking result in a denser exterior. If you choose to fry them, use medium temperature oil (around 340-360°F) and fry until they are golden brown. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 370°F and cook for 9-13 minutes. For baking, preheat the oven to 380°F and bake for 10-14 minutes.
Dips and Sauces
Cheese balls go well with a variety of dips and sauces. You can serve them with your favourite marinara sauce, tomato ketchup, chilli sauce, or any other dip you prefer. They also pair well with crackers, pretzels, or vegetables for dipping.
Nuts and Coatings
For a more indulgent and textured experience, you can coat the cheese balls in finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts. Simply hold the cheese ball in one hand and use the other hand to gently press the nuts onto the surface. This adds a crunchy element to the creamy cheese balls.
Platter and Serving Ware
When serving cheese balls, it is recommended to use a platter or plate that allows for easy access and presentation. Include a cheese spreading knife with your platter to prevent the cheese balls from breaking when spread onto crackers or other accompaniments.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Cheese balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, it is suggested to add the nuts or coatings just before serving to maintain their crunch. Take the cheese balls out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes beforehand to allow them to soften slightly before serving.
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Cheese ball ingredients
There are many variations of vegetable cheese balls, with different ingredients used depending on the recipe. Here is a list of ingredients that can be used to make vegetable cheese balls:
Vegetables
Vegetable cheese balls can include a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, onions, corn kernels, green peas, broccoli, and cauliflower. These vegetables are typically mashed, boiled, or steamed and then mixed with the cheese and other ingredients.
Cheese
The type of cheese used can vary, with popular options including cheddar, mozzarella, Amul cheese, and cream cheese. The cheese is typically grated or shredded and mixed with the vegetables and other ingredients to create a creamy texture.
Spices and Seasonings
Common spices and seasonings used in vegetable cheese balls include salt, pepper, red chilli flakes, Italian herbs, allspice powder, cumin powder, and sugar. These ingredients add flavour and heat to the cheese balls.
Binders and Coatings
To help bind the ingredients together, eggs or flour can be used. Corn starch is a popular choice for this purpose. The cheese balls can also be coated in breadcrumbs, panko crumbs, or crushed nuts like pecans to add a crunchy texture.
Dips and Sauces
Vegetable cheese balls are often served with dips or sauces, such as ketchup, chilli sauce, marinara sauce, or a vegetable dip.
The specific ingredients and quantities may vary depending on the recipe, and individuals can adjust the spices and seasonings to their taste preferences.
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Nutritional value of veggie cheese balls
The nutritional value of veggie cheese balls will depend on the ingredients used and the method of cooking. For example, deep-fried cheese balls will have a different nutritional profile to baked cheese balls.
Veggie cheese balls are often made with a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, onions, corn, peas, broccoli, and cauliflower. These vegetables provide a good source of dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes, for instance, are a good source of potassium and vitamin C, while broccoli is rich in fibre and vitamin K.
The cheese in veggie cheese balls contributes protein, calcium, and fat to the nutritional profile. Different types of cheese will vary in their exact nutritional content, but generally, cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. For example, a recipe for veggie cheese balls may call for cheddar cheese, which is higher in fat and sodium but also provides protein and calcium.
Other ingredients commonly found in veggie cheese balls include nuts, breadcrumbs, corn starch, and various herbs and spices. Nuts provide healthy fats, fibre, and protein, while herbs and spices add antioxidants and additional flavour. Breadcrumbs and corn starch are used as binding agents and contribute carbohydrates.
Overall, veggie cheese balls can be a nutritious snack or appetizer, offering a combination of vegetables, protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. However, it is important to note that the cooking method, portion size, and specific ingredients used can significantly impact the nutritional value.
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Vegetarian cheese ball alternatives
Veggie cheese balls are a great appetizer, but if you're looking for something a little different, here are some vegetarian cheese ball alternatives to try:
Vegan Cheese Ball
This dairy-free and gluten-free option is a great alternative for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. The base is made with vegan cream cheese, coconut milk, and either cashews or almonds. For flavour, add spices, garlic, and herbs such as herbes de Provence, rosemary, or oregano. To add a bit of sweetness, roll the cheese ball in dried cranberries, cherries, or pecans. This option can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Potato Cheese Balls
For a more filling option, try making cheese balls with potatoes as the base. Boil and mash the potatoes, then mix in grated cheese, gram flour or chickpea flour, and salt. Shape the mixture into balls and deep fry until crispy and golden on the outside. These cheese balls are gluten-free and can be served as an appetizer or a snack.
Classic Cheese Ball
A traditional cheese ball is made with a combination of cheeses such as cheddar and cream cheese, green onions, and chopped pecans or other nuts of your choice. Add some Worcestershire sauce, spices, and a touch of hot sauce to give it a magical flavour. This option can also be made ahead of time and will stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Boursin-Style Cheese Ball
This vegan cheese ball is similar to a garlic and herb Boursin cheese spread. It's made with vegan cream cheese, coconut milk, garlic salt, pepper, and granulated onion and garlic. Process the mixture until smooth, then stir in chopped green onions. Shape the mixture into a ball and roll it in pecans, fresh parsley, and dried cranberries. This option is dairy-free and gluten-free, making it a great holiday appetizer.
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Frequently asked questions
Vegetable cheese balls are a delicious snack or appetiser made with potato, cheese, herbs, and spices. They are crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside.
There are many ways to make vegetable cheese balls. Here is a simple recipe:
- Mash a boiled potato in a bowl.
- Add in other vegetables, such as onion, corn kernels, green peas, broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Season with oregano and salt.
- Add shredded or cubed cheese and corn starch and mix well.
- Form the mixture into even-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray.
- Bake in the oven at 350 F/ 180 C for 15 minutes, turning them over once after 7-8 minutes.
- Serve with your favourite sauce or dip.
You can use a variety of cheeses for vegetable cheese balls, such as cheddar, cream cheese, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses.
Yes, you can make vegetable cheese balls in an air fryer. However, the temperature and time duration may vary depending on the specific air fryer and recipe.
