Golden Vegan Cheese Balls with Zesty Herb Dip
Prep
25m
Cook
15m
Total
40m
Serves
4
Cal
380
“Get ready for a party in your mouth with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive vegan bites!”
Get ready for a party in your mouth with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive vegan bites! Inspired by American flavors, this easy-to-make golden vegan cheese balls with zesty herb dip comes together with just a handful of ingredients and yields 4 generous servings. At 380 calories per serving, it's a satisfying choice that doesn't compromise on nutrition. Ready in 40 minutes (25 min prep, 15 min cook), it's proof that plant-based comfort food can be both simple and extraordinary.
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Instructions
- 1
Prepare the 'Cheese' Mixture: Drain the soaked cashews thoroughly. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the drained cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric (if using), plant-based milk, salt, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. It should be a thick, spreadable consistency. If too thick, add a tiny bit more plant-based milk, a teaspoon at a time.
- 2
Form the Balls: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and finely chopped parsley. Take about 1 tablespoon of the cashew cheese mixture and roll it into a small ball. Gently roll each ball in the panko-parsley mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it's fully coated. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- 3
Chill: Place the coated cheese balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart during frying.
- 4
Prepare the Dip: While the cheese balls are chilling, whisk together all the Zesty Herb Dip ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- 5
Fry the Cheese Balls: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few cheese balls to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 6
Serve: Serve the hot, crispy vegan cheese balls immediately with the Zesty Herb Dip for dipping. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
Don't skip the seasoning. Vegan comfort food shines when you're generous with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Taste as you go and adjust seasoning before serving. Plant-based dishes often benefit from a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt at the end.
Serving Suggestions
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