Bolitas de Queso
Venezuelan Cheese Balls
Crispy on the outside and delightfully melty on the inside, these Venezuelan cheese balls are a popular appetizer and party snack. They are simple to make and incredibly addictive.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300g Queso blanco rallado (grated white cheese)(Use a firm, salty white cheese like queso de mano, llanero, or a firm feta if Venezuelan cheese is unavailable. Grate it finely.)
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour(This helps bind the cheese and provides structure.)
- 2 Large eggs(Beaten lightly.)
- Enough for deep frying (approx. 3-4 cups) Vegetable oil or other neutral oil for frying(Ensure there is enough oil for the balls to float freely.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt(Optional, to taste, depending on the saltiness of the cheese.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the grated queso blanco, flour, and lightly beaten eggs. Add salt if using. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until a cohesive dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Form the cheese balls: Lightly grease your hands with a little oil or water to prevent sticking. Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form small, uniform balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Heat the frying oil: Pour the oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven, ensuring it's at least 3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a tiny piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 4
Fry the cheese balls: Carefully add the cheese balls to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. The inside should be melted.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 5
Drain and serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried cheese balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra crispiness, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Too low and they will be greasy; too high and they will burn before the inside melts.
- ✓The inside will be molten and gooey; this is part of their delicious appeal.
- ✓These are perfect as a party appetizer or a delightful snack any time of day.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Incorporate finely diced cooked ham or crumbled bacon into the dough for a savory twist.