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Honey-Glazed Fried Cheese Balls with Pistachios

Golden crispy fried cheese balls with creamy interior, drizzled with honey and topped with pistachios - a Middle Eastern inspired dessert.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 16 cheese balls
Course: Appetizer, Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Cheese Balls
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 cup fine breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • vegetable oil for deep frying
Honey Glaze
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 0.5 tsp rose water optional
Garnish
  • 0.5 cup crushed pistachios
  • additional honey for drizzling

Equipment

  • Deep fryer or heavy pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Thermometer
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Drain ricotta cheese thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth for at least 30 minutes, pressing gently to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a large bowl, combine drained ricotta, mozzarella, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  3. Form the cheese mixture into uniform balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Refrigerate formed cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during frying.
  5. Set up breading station with three shallow bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  6. Roll each cheese ball in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure coating adheres.
  7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350-375°F, using a thermometer to maintain temperature.
  8. Fry 4-5 cheese balls at a time for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
  9. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towel-lined plate.
  10. Prepare honey glaze by warming honey, water, lemon juice, and rose water in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until combined.
  11. Arrange warm cheese balls on serving platter, drizzle with honey glaze, and sprinkle with crushed pistachios.
  12. Serve immediately while warm for best texture and flavor.

Notes

For best results, ensure ricotta is well-drained before starting. Cheese balls can be formed and breaded up to 24 hours ahead. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.