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Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey

Ingredients

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For the Cheese Balls:

  • 8 oz goat cheese (chevre), softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For Breading:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

For Frying:

  • 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For Garnish:

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • Extra fresh tarragon leaves for garnish
  • Cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Balls:

  1. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped tarragon, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
  2. Shape into Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined plate.
  3. Chill the Cheese Balls: Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape while frying.

Bread the Cheese Balls:

  1. Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten egg in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  2. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

Fry the Cheese Balls:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a small saucepan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry Until Golden: Fry the cheese balls in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  3. Drain and Cool: Remove the cheese balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Drizzle with Honey: Arrange the cheese balls on a serving plate and drizzle with honey while they are still warm.
  2. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with extra fresh tarragon leaves and a dash of cracked black pepper for added flavor. Serve immediately.

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