Get ready to revolutionize your appetizer game with these irresistible Green Lentil Mini Cream Cheese Balls that are about to become the star of every gathering! Imagine crispy, golden-brown bite-sized delights packed with protein, creamy texture, and a burst of flavor that will have your guests begging for the recipe. These little culinary miracles are not just delicious, but they're also a sneaky way to incorporate nutritious lentils into a crowd-pleasing dish that looks and tastes like pure indulgence.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Appetizer
Serves: 16 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked green lentils
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Drain and cool cooked green lentils completely, ensuring they are not warm to prevent cream cheese from melting.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked green lentils using a fork or potato masher until they form a slightly chunky consistency.
- Add softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed lentils. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Place breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish for coating the lentil mixture.
- Using clean hands, form the lentil mixture into small round balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Each ball should be compact and hold its shape.
- Gently roll each ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the lentil balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry each ball for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a golden-brown color on all sides.
- Remove fried balls using a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Allow the lentil balls to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to help them set and prevent burning.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, optionally with a dipping sauce like yogurt or herb sauce.
Tips
- Ensure your lentils are completely cooled before mixing to prevent cream cheese from melting.
- Use a fork or potato masher to create a slightly chunky lentil texture for better binding.
- Make sure your hands are slightly damp when forming balls to prevent sticking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain optimal oil temperature and achieve even browning.
- Use a slotted spoon for easy and safe removal of balls from hot oil.
- Let the balls rest for a few minutes after frying to help them set and become less fragile.
- For a healthier version, you can bake these balls at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 65kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
