๐ง Aunt Nancy’s Blue Cheese Ball ๐ง
Aunt Nancy’s Blue Cheese Ball is a classic and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. It’s a delightful combination of creamy blue cheese, savory herbs, and crunchy nuts, all rolled into a ball and served with crackers or bread. Let’s dive into the details!
๐ History:
The history of the Blue Cheese Ball recipe is not well-documented, but similar cheese balls have been popular in the United States since the mid-20th century. They are often served at holiday parties and other festive occasions.
๐ฅ Components:
- 8 oz (about 1 cup) crumbled blue cheese: The star ingredient, providing that distinctive tangy and creamy flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese: To add creaminess and balance to the blue cheese.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions: For a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: These are for the crunchy coating that wraps the cheese ball.
- A pinch of black pepper: For a bit of heat and extra flavor.
๐ช Preparation Steps:
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Soften the cream cheese: Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, blue cheese, and butter. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to blend them together until smooth and well combined.
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Add the chopped green onions and Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. Continue to mix until they are evenly distributed.
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Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap on your countertop. Form the cheese mixture into a ball and place it in the center of the plastic wrap.
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Wrap the cheese ball tightly in the plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or until it becomes firm. This allows the flavors to meld and the ball to set.
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While the cheese ball is chilling, you can prepare the coating. Place the chopped nuts and black pepper on a plate or a shallow dish.
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After the cheese ball has hardened, remove it from the fridge and unwrap it.
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Roll the cheese ball in the nut mixture until it’s evenly coated. You can press the nuts onto the ball to ensure they stick.
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Place the coated cheese ball on a serving dish. You can add a sprig of parsley or some additional green onions for garnish.
๐ Time Needed:
- Preparation: About 20 minutes
- Chilling: At least 2 hours
- Coating: 5-10 minutes
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Nancy’s Blue Cheese Ball is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the chilling time. It’s a fantastic make-ahead appetizer, and your guests will love its rich and savory flavor, especially when served with crackers or bread. Enjoy! ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐
Certainly! Here are the approximate nutrition facts for Aunt Nancy’s Blue Cheese Ball per serving, which is about 2 tablespoons:
- Calories: 110 calories
- Total Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugars: 0 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. It’s important to keep in mind that Aunt Nancy’s Blue Cheese Ball is a delicious but calorie-dense appetizer due to its cheese and nut content.
Health Information:
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Calcium: Blue cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health and muscle function.
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Protein: The Blue Cheese Ball provides a moderate amount of protein, which is necessary for muscle maintenance and overall body function.
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Fat: While this appetizer is high in fat, it’s worth noting that not all fats are created equal. Blue cheese contains saturated fats, so it’s advisable to consume it in moderation.
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Sodium: The sodium content is relatively high due to the blue cheese, so individuals with hypertension or those watching their sodium intake should enjoy it in limited quantities.
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Low Carbohydrates: If you’re following a low-carb diet, this appetizer is a suitable choice as it has minimal carbohydrates.
Remember that moderation is key when indulging in rich and calorie-dense appetizers like this Blue Cheese Ball. It’s a delightful treat for special occasions, but it’s essential to balance it with a well-rounded and healthy diet.
