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Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Tarragon and Honey

These crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls are filled with creamy goat cheese and aromatic tarragon, drizzled with golden honey for a perfect blend of savory and sweet.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cheese Balls:
  • 8 oz goat cheese chevre, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For Breading:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • For Frying:
  • 1½ cups vegetable oil for deep frying
  • For Garnish:
  • 3 tablespoons honey local honey preferred
  • Fresh tarragon leaves for garnish
  • Cracked black pepper optional, for finishing

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cheese Balls:
  2. In a medium bowl, combine goat cheese, chopped tarragon, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined plate. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
  4. Bread the Cheese Balls:
  5. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure even coverage.
  7. Fry the Cheese Balls:
  8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or small saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Fry the cheese balls in small batches for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  10. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towel-lined plates to absorb excess oil.
  11. Serve and Garnish:
  12. Arrange the warm cheese balls on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey while still hot.
  13. Garnish with fresh tarragon leaves and a dash of cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: You can shape and refrigerate the cheese balls up to 24 hours in advance. Bread and fry when ready to serve.
Storage: Store leftover fried cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.