Cauliflower Cheese Balls

1. Steam the Cauliflower:
   • Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket set over a pot of boiling water. Steam the cauliflower for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes tender when pierced with a fork.
   • Remove the steamed cauliflower from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture:
   • Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the cauliflower until it forms a coarse puree.
   • Add the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape the Cheese Balls:
   • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cauliflower mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture, making approximately 20 cheese balls in total.
4. Coat the Cheese Balls:

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1. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
2. Dip each cauliflower cheese ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
3. Roll the egg-coated cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until it is evenly coated on all sides. Place the coated cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Fry the Cheese Balls:
   • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 350°F (175°C).
   • Carefully place the coated cheese balls into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
   • Fry the cheese balls for approximately 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. Serve:
   • Once the cauliflower cheese balls are fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps to absorb any excess oil.
   • Serve the cauliflower cheese balls hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli.

Tips

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the cauliflower mixture, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda, to add variety to the flavor profile.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cauliflower mixture and shape the cheese balls in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to coat and fry them.
• Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier alternative to frying, you can bake the coated cheese balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they become golden brown and crispy.

These Cauliflower Cheese Balls are a delightful blend of crispy exterior and creamy interior, making them a perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy their cheesy goodness guilt-free!