Crunchy Edam Cheese Sticks: A Savory Starter
These Crunchy Edam Cheese Sticks make for a perfect appetizer to kick off any meal with a burst of savory flavor. The mild, creamy texture of Edam cheese is beautifully complemented by a crispy, golden crust, making them irresistibly delicious. The recipe is simple to follow and yields 8 perfectly crispy cheese sticks. Ideal for a snack or party platter, these cheese sticks are sure to delight guests with their crunchy exterior and gooey center. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Edam cheese | 400g |
| Corn flour (cornstarch) | 200g |
| All-purpose flour | 65g |
| Eggs | 65g |
| Whole milk | 200g |
| Baking soda | 5g |
| Sunflower oil | 10g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Ground chili powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Breadcrumbs (coarse) | 100g |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cheese:
- Begin by cutting the Edam cheese into 8 equal-sized cubes, each measuring 4×4 cm and about 2 cm thick. Insert a skewer or toothpick into each cube, so they are ready for dipping and frying.
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Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Stir in the ground chili powder for an extra kick of flavor. Gradually add the milk and whisk in the whole egg until a smooth batter forms. The batter should have a consistency that allows it to coat the cheese sticks evenly.
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Coat the Cheese Sticks:
- On a separate plate or tray, spread the breadcrumbs in an even layer. Dip each cheese skewer into the prepared batter, ensuring it’s well-coated, then immediately roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere. Once all the cheese sticks are coated, lay them out on a clean tray.
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Fry the Cheese Sticks:
- Heat the peanut oil in a deep saucepan or frying pot over medium heat. You want the oil to reach around 150°C (300°F). To test the oil, drop in a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
- Carefully lower each breaded cheese skewer into the hot oil, one at a time, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until the coating turns golden brown and crisp. The cheese inside should be melting and gooey.
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Drain and Serve:
- Once fried, remove the cheese sticks from the oil and place them on a tray lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while they’re still warm and crispy!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
(Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Variations: While Edam cheese gives these sticks a creamy and mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a more intense taste.
- Serving Suggestions: These crunchy Edam cheese sticks can be served with a variety of dips, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy sriracha mayo.
- Oil Temperature: Be sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy, golden exterior. If the oil is too cool, the coating might absorb too much oil and become soggy.
These Crunchy Edam Cheese Sticks are perfect for a gathering, offering a unique twist on traditional fried cheese. The crispy crust and gooey interior will have everyone coming back for more!
