Description

Delight in crispy, golden fried goat cheese balls paired with a sweet and spicy sage-infused honey drizzle. These bite-sized appetizers offer a perfect balance of creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and a kick of heat, ideal for entertaining or elevating any snack time.

Ingredients

Cheese Balls

8 oz goat cheese, softened
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Spicy Sage Honey

1/2 cup honey
6 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
1/2 tsp lemon juice
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, blend the softened goat cheese with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Form the mixture into small, 1-inch diameter balls, then set them aside on a plate.
Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten egg, and the third with panko breadcrumbs for an even coating.
Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each goat cheese ball first in flour, then dip it fully into the beaten egg, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded balls on a clean surface, ready to fry.
Fry the Cheese Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a medium pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Fry the cheese balls in batches, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Make the Spicy Sage Honey: While frying, gently heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the chopped sage, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Serve: Drizzle the warm spicy sage honey over the freshly fried goat cheese balls right before serving. Enjoy them immediately to appreciate the contrast of crispy exterior and creamy interior with the sweet and spicy honey.

Notes

Panko breadcrumbs provide the best crispiness for frying.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level in the honey.
Serve immediately after drizzling the honey to maintain the crispy texture of the cheese balls.
For a vegetarian option, ensure the honey is suitable for your diet preference or substitute with a vegan syrup if needed.
Leftover honey can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.