Pittsburgh-style Benne Balls

Ingredients

In the Pittsburgh-style adaptation of Benne Balls, we incorporate local Pittsburgh ingredients and flavors to give the dish a distinct regional twist. While the original Southern American Benne Balls are typically made with sesame seeds, butter, and sugar, the Pittsburgh-style version replaces the sugar with savory ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spices. This adaptation reflects the flavor preferences and culinary traditions of Pittsburgh, resulting in a more savory and robust flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Benne Balls, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) sesame seeds 1 cup (240ml) sesame seeds
• 1 cup (240ml) all-purpose flour 1 cup (240ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped onion 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped green bell pepper 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped celery 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped cooked ham 1/4 cup (60ml) finely chopped cooked ham
• 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded cheddar cheese 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, dried parsley, and cayenne pepper.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and vegetable oil.
4. 4.
   Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. 5.
   Stir in the toasted sesame seeds, chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, cooked ham, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
7. 7.
   Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove the Benne Balls from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sesame seeds — Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them, as it can result in a bitter taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe.
• Serve the Benne Balls with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as spicy mayo or tangy barbecue sauce.
• Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to ensure a crispy exterior.
• Experiment with different fillings, such as cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms, to add your own twist to the recipe.
• These Benne Balls can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Pittsburgh-style Benne Balls as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a tasty snack for game nights. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Benne Balls on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them alongside a dipping sauce of your choice to enhance the flavor and presentation.