Herbed Yogurt Cheese Balls (Bottled for Gifts)
๐ Cook Time: 144 hours
๐ Prep Time: 30 minutes
๐ Total Time: 144 hours and 30 minutes
Description:
Herbed yogurt cheese balls make a delightful first course or a satisfying lunch option when served atop thick slices of fresh tomato or alongside various breads. Their visual appeal is enhanced when presented in a bottle with herbs, adorned with a ribbon, making them perfect gifts for friends who will surely appreciate this thoughtful gesture!
Recipe Category:
Spreads
Keywords:
- Lunch/Snacks
- Cheese
- Canadian
- Weeknight
- No Cook
- Refrigerator
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 93.4
- Fat Content: 5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 19.9mg
- Sodium Content: 361.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 7.1g
- Fiber Content: 0g
- Sugar Content: 7.1g
- Protein Content: 5.3g
Yield:
16-20 small cheeses
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Fresh mint (chopped), for garnish
- Fresh marjoram (chopped), for garnish
- Fresh tarragon (chopped), for garnish
- Paprika, for garnish
- Olive oil, for packing
Instructions:
-
Prepare Strainers:
- Line 2 large strainers with scalded cheesecloth and place them over receptacle bowls to catch the drainage.
-
Drain Yogurt:
- Whisk the salt into the yogurt, then pour it into the prepared strainers.
- Allow the yogurt to drain overnight; it will gradually transform into a soft, creamy curd.
-
Shape and Refrigerate:
- Mold the drained yogurt into small rounds, then place them on a perforated dish.
- Refrigerate the yogurt rounds for 24 hours.
-
Serve Fresh or Preserve:
- The cheeses can be enjoyed immediately by sprinkling them with chopped herbs or paprika and serving them on thick slices of fresh tomato.
- For preservation, refrigerate the cheeses for an additional 2 to 4 days, depending on desired creaminess.
- Once ready, pack the cheese balls into sterilized jars, layering them with herbs, and cover them generously with olive oil.
- Store the jars in a cool place until ready to gift or consume.
By following these simple steps, you’ll create delightful herbed yogurt cheese balls that are not only delicious to eat but also make charming gifts for your loved ones. Whether enjoyed fresh or preserved, these cheese balls are sure to impress with their creamy texture and flavorful herb-infused profile.
