Cheese Balls
Cheese Balls Recipe from Bulgaria with Oregano and Cream Cheese
Introduction
Cheese balls are a delicious and popular appetizer or snack that are perfect for parties or gatherings. These cheesy bites are easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
History
The origins of cheese balls are a bit unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the United States in the 1940s. They gained popularity in the 1970s and have been a staple at parties ever since.
Ingredients
- 200 g of grated yellow cheese
- 200 g of Bulgarian cheese
- 200 g of cream cheese
- 200 g of margarine
- 2 eggs
- 350 g of self raising flour (add more if necessary)
- oregano (optional)
How to prepare
- Combine all the ingredients.
- Shape the mixture into small rolls.
- Optional: sprinkle with oregano.
- Bake at 180°C for 20 minutes or until the top turns light brown.
Variations
- Add chopped jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Roll the cheese balls in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy coating.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cheese balls.
- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs or spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese balls with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Cooking Techniques
Bake the cheese balls in the oven for a crispy exterior and gooey interior.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any combination of cheeses in this recipe, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the cheese ball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the cheese balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair cheese balls with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cheese balls contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of cheese balls contains approximately 15g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of cheese balls contains approximately 20g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of cheese balls contains approximately 10g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Cheese balls are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Alergens
Cheese balls contain dairy (cheese, cream cheese, eggs) and gluten (self raising flour).
Summary
Cheese balls are a tasty treat that are high in fats and proteins, making them a satisfying snack option.
Summary
Cheese balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. With a gooey cheese center and crispy exterior, these bites are sure to be a hit with your guests.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. Margaret was known for her delicious homemade treats, and that day she had a surprise in store for me - her famous cheese balls.
As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary skills. She moved with such grace and precision, effortlessly mixing the ingredients together to create the perfect dough. I could tell that this recipe was something special, something worth holding onto.
Margaret noticed my interest and smiled knowingly. "Would you like to learn how to make these cheese balls, dear?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement. I nodded eagerly, eager to soak up every bit of knowledge she had to offer.
And so, Margaret began to teach me the art of making cheese balls. She shared with me the secret ingredient that added the perfect touch of flavor, the technique for rolling them into perfectly round shapes, and the importance of baking them at just the right temperature. I listened intently, taking notes and asking questions along the way.
After a few hours of hands-on practice, I finally felt confident enough to try making the cheese balls on my own. Margaret watched with pride as I worked, offering words of encouragement and guidance when needed. When the cheese balls finally emerged from the oven, golden brown and perfectly crispy, I knew I had found a recipe worth treasuring.
From that day on, I made it a point to perfect the recipe for cheese balls. I experimented with different types of cheese, herbs, and spices, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who raved about how delicious they were. And with each batch I made, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride in my newfound culinary skills.
Over the years, I continued to add my own personal touch to the recipe for cheese balls. I discovered that a sprinkle of garlic powder added a subtle kick, while a dash of cayenne pepper brought a hint of heat. I played around with different types of cheese, from sharp cheddar to creamy gouda, each one adding its own unique flavor profile.
As I honed my skills in the kitchen, I also learned the value of passing down recipes from one generation to the next. I shared the recipe for cheese balls with my children and grandchildren, teaching them the same techniques and tricks that Margaret had taught me all those years ago. And as they rolled up their sleeves and got to work in the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction in knowing that this recipe would continue to be passed down through the generations.
And so, the recipe for cheese balls became more than just a dish - it became a symbol of tradition, of love, and of the bonds that tie us together as a family. And every time I make a batch of cheese balls, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of this delicious recipe.
Categories
| Bulgarian Recipes | Cheese Ball Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Cream Cheese Recipes | Jewish Snacks | Oregano Recipes | Slavic Recipes |