East Indian Cheese Ball
A flavorful East Indian cheese ball combining creamy, spicy, and sweet elements, perfect for parties or as an appetizer for those who enjoy bold, exotic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together except for the chutney.
- Shape into a ball and refrigerate.
- When ready to serve, spread the chutney on top of the ball and serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, let the cheese ball chill for at least an hour before serving. You can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture. If you want a crunchier texture, consider using toasted almonds instead of peanuts. For a milder flavor, reduce the curry powder to 1/8 tsp. This dish is a fantastic appetizer alongside other Indian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer platter. It pairs beautifully with chutney, which adds a refreshing contrast. Consider complementing it with a side of Indian fried bread for a more filling spread, perfect for gatherings or festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cheese ball can be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving again to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of East Indian Cheese Ball contains roughly 487 calories, with 19g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, this cheese ball can be made a day in advance. Just shape it and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Be sure to add the chutney right before serving to keep the presentation fresh and appealing.
What can I use instead of chutney?
If you're out of chutney, you can use a spread like mango salsa or a fruit preserve. These will provide a similar sweet-tangy contrast. You can also create a simple yogurt dip with herbs to accompany the cheese ball for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this East Indian Cheese Ball is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for vegetarian recipes. It's packed with protein from the cheeses and nuts, making it a satisfying snack or appetizer for all dietary preferences.
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).