Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Honey and Fennel Pollen
Servings 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh goat cheese such as chèvre
- ⅓ cup flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 4-5 cups vegetable oil or as needed
- honey to drizzle
- kosher salt
- fennel pollen to sprinkle
Instructions
- Roll the goat cheese into bite sized balls about 1 inch in diameter. The goat cheese will be crumbly but just press it together and roll between your hands to make a smooth ball. Set the goat cheese balls aside.
- Gather three shallow containers. Add the flour to the first container and season with a pinch of kosher salt. Combine the egg and water in the second container and whisk until combined. Lastly, add the panko crumbs to the third container and season with a pinch of kosher salt.
- To bread the goat cheese, roll one ball in the flour and shake off any excess. Dip the cheese into the egg being sure to coat the ball evenly. Roll in the panko crumbs until fully coated. Return the ball to the egg mixture, turning to coat and then dredge in the crumbs for a second time. Place the breaded goat cheese ball on a plate and set aside. Repeat with the remaining goat cheese balls.
- Place the breaded goat cheese balls in the freezer for about 15 minutes. If preparing them ahead of time, store the breaded goat cheese balls in the fridge and transfer to the freezer 15 minutes before frying.
- Fill a wide saucepan or shallow skillet with vegetable oil about 1 inch deep. Heat on medium high until the oil reaches a temperature of 350°F. Turn the heat to low and maintain the temperature.
- Lower the goat cheese balls into the hot oil several at a time. Gently stir to ensure they brown evenly. Cook until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Do not overcook as the breading can burst if the cheese gets too hot. When browned, remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate. Repeat with the remaining goat cheese balls.
- To serve, gently warm the honey in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to make it easier to drizzle. Arrange the fried goat cheese on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm honey. Sprinkle with a little kosher salt and then with the fennel pollen. Enjoy!