Shelly's Recipe

CRISPY HOT ALMOND CHEESE BALLS

Category: Cheese

1/2 cup blanched almonds, ground
1/3 cup panko crumbs, or crushed cornflake crumbs
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 cup aged Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 c all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp ground white pepper
Pinch salt
2 large egg whites
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Combine the almonds and crumbs, and set aside. In a bowl, mix the cheeses, flour, cayenne, pepper and salt. In a separate bowl whip the egg whites until they are stiff. Fold into the cheese mixture. Scoop one tbsp of the cheese mixture and form into a ball. Roll in the crumb mixture. Place the balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours.

In a skillet, heat the oil. Cook the balls in small batches until golden brown, turning often, about 2 - 3 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Serve warm.

The cheese balls can be cooled and reheated at 400 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through.