Spicy Artichoke Balls: A Flavorful Appetizer for Any Occasion
This delightful recipe for Spicy Artichoke Balls is perfect for those seeking a savory appetizer that packs a flavorful punch, making it an excellent choice for parties, gatherings, or simply as a delicious snack at home. The artichokes provide a unique taste and texture, while the spices and cheese add warmth and richness. If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste by incorporating optional chili sauces or chili powder.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: N/A
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Description: A tasty and spicy appetizer that can be adjusted to your spice preference.
- Recipe Category: Vegetable
- Servings: 48 (makes about 4 dozen)
- Keywords: Appetizer, Spicy, For Large Groups, Vegetarian, Party Food
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 59.6 |
| Total Fat | 2.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 12.1 mg |
| Sodium | 260.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.7 g |
| Protein | 3.6 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | garlic cloves |
| 2 tablespoons | olive oil |
| 2 cans (14 oz each) | artichoke hearts, drained |
| 2 | eggs, slightly beaten |
| 1 ½ cups | grated parmesan cheese |
| 1 ½ tablespoons | Tabasco sauce (optional) |
| ¼ to ½ teaspoon | chili powder (optional) |
| ½ cup | bread crumbs |
| ½ cup | additional parmesan cheese |
| Herbs of your choice (to taste) |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Artichokes: Begin by draining the artichoke hearts thoroughly, making sure to reserve the juice. This step is crucial, as the juice can help adjust the consistency of your mixture later if it becomes too dry.
-
-
Mash the Artichokes: In a mixing bowl, take the drained artichoke hearts and mash them well until you achieve a smooth consistency, similar to a thick paste.
-
Combine the Ingredients: Add the slightly beaten eggs to the mashed artichokes, along with half of the grated parmesan cheese and half of the bread crumbs. Blend the mixture until it resembles a bread dressing consistency. If the mixture appears too dry, incorporate a bit of the reserved artichoke juice and/or your choice of Tabasco sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor and moisture.
-
Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
-
Simmer the Mixture: Add the artichoke mixture to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. At this point, you can add your choice of herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Gently simmer the mixture while stirring for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Cool the Mixture: After simmering, spoon the cooked artichoke mixture into a bowl. Cover it and allow it to cool completely, as this will make it easier to form the balls.
-
Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and optional chili powder. This mixture will provide a crunchy exterior to the artichoke balls.
-
Form the Balls: Once the artichoke mixture has cooled, use about one tablespoon of the mixture to form small balls. Roll each ball in the crumb, cheese, and chili powder mixture until well coated.
-
Chill the Balls: Place the rolled artichoke balls in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps them firm up and maintain their shape during cooking.
-
Serve the Artichoke Balls: To serve, arrange the chilled artichoke balls on a cookie sheet. You have a couple of options here: either run them under the broiler for a few minutes until they are heated through and golden, or microwave them for a quicker option. Alternatively, they can also be served at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile.
-
Garnish: For an attractive presentation, stick a colorful toothpick into each artichoke ball and arrange them on a vibrant platter. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes it easier for guests to grab and enjoy these delightful bites.
This recipe for Spicy Artichoke Balls not only tantalizes the taste buds but also makes a stunning addition to any appetizer spread. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these flavorful morsels are sure to impress and satisfy, providing a perfect blend of spice and comfort. Enjoy creating this delectable treat that is sure to be a hit among friends and family alike!
