Chorizo & Mozzarella Cheese Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Chorizo & Mozzarella Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy appetizer with a gooey, cheesy center. Perfect for sharing, they combine the smoky flavor of chorizo with creamy mozzarella in a crunchy coating. They’re quick to prepare and cook beautifully in an air fryer.

Ingredients

• 250g grated mozzarella
• 50g grated parmesan
• 50g grated or finely sliced chorizo
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• 2 tbsp water
• 100g plain flour
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 200g breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the grated mozzarella, grated parmesan, minced chorizo, cornflour, and water. Mix with a spoon, then knead with your hands until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency that can be easily molded.
2. Step 2: Tear off small pieces of the mixture and roll them into balls. You should be able to make around 8 balls. Set them aside.
3. Step 3: Prepare three plates: one with plain flour, one with the whisked eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs mixed with paprika. Roll each ball first in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat this coating process two or three times for each ball to create a thicker crust that prevents the cheese from oozing during cooking.
4. Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 205°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Place the chorizo and mozzarella balls gently into the air fryer basket and cook until golden and crispy. Remove carefully and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be shallow fried in oil until golden brown.
• Try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to the cheese mixture for added freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and coat the balls in advance and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. For best results, cook them fresh or reheat shortly before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can shallow fry the cheese balls in hot oil, about 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Alternatively, bake them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.