Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. goat cheese
- 1 pear, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp. honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Small bowl
- Large bowl
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat until it reduces by half. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the goat cheese, diced pear, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into small balls.
4. In a small bowl, beat the egg.
5. Place the flour in another small bowl.
6. Dip each ball first in the flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat evenly.
7. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, using a slotted spoon to turn them over.
9. Place the fried balls on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the fried balls before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for frying
Serving size:
Makes about 20 balls, serving size varies
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 160mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of goat cheese, you can use cream cheese or feta cheese.
- Instead of pear, you can use apple or dried cranberries.
- Instead of balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture for added crunch.
- Roll the balls in chopped herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- Serve the balls on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a salad.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the balls from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make sure the balls are evenly sized.
- Chill the balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
Storage instructions:
Store the fried balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the balls in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the balls are falling apart while frying, try adding more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind it together.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the balls to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
Food history:
Goat cheese has been around for centuries and is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region.
Flavor profiles:
The tangy goat cheese pairs well with the sweet pear and the balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A