East India Cheese Ball
A creamy, flavorful cheese ball infused with curry and mango chutney, coated with toasted almonds and shredded coconut. Perfect for appetizers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except shredded coconut, and mix well.
- Roll the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in shredded coconut to coat.
- Serve with crackers. Store in refrigerator for several weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing. If you don't have mango chutney, any fruity chutney can be a good substitute. Adjust the curry powder to taste depending on your spice preference. For added crunch, consider using crushed pistachios instead of almonds. This cheese ball can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with a variety of crackers or alongside Indian Tiki Bread for an exciting flavor combination. It also pairs well with fresh fruits like apples or pears. For a complete spread, consider serving it with Southern Indian Pudding or Dosas(Indian Flat Bread) to create a delightful appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheese ball can last for several weeks. If it firms up too much, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving again. Avoid freezing as the texture may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of East India Cheese Ball contains roughly 220 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value) and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheese ball can be made up to two days in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What can I use if I don't have slivered almonds?
If slivered almonds are unavailable, you can substitute with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different texture and flavor. You can also omit the nuts entirely if desired, making this a nut-free snack.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this East India Cheese Ball is a vegetarian recipe, making it perfect for those following a plant-based diet. The ingredients are entirely dairy and plant-based, so it can be enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).