Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 boiled potatoes, mashed
- ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for added spice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
- For Coating:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten (for an egg-free version, use a mixture of 2 tablespoons milk and 1 tablespoon cornstarch)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (ensure they are halal-certified)
- Oil for deep frying (use a halal-certified cooking oil)
Method:
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with the mashed potatoes.
- Add black pepper, salt, garlic powder, red chili flakes, and chopped coriander leaves. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Shape the Balls:
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form smooth, round balls. Aim for a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
Coating Process:
- In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
- Roll each cheese ball in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Dip the floured ball into the beaten egg (or the milk and cornstarch mixture for an egg-free version), making sure it's fully coated.
- Finally, roll the ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. For an extra crispy exterior, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating step.
Frying:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is at the right temperature.
- Carefully place the coated cheese balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they achieve a golden brown color and a crispy texture.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving:
- Serve the cheese balls hot with your choice of dipping sauces such as ketchup, garlic mayonnaise, or a spicy chili sauce.
Enjoy your homemade halal cheese balls!
