Hercegovački Uštipci (Bosnian Cheese Puffs)

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the egg mixture into the cheese and flour mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped parsley to the dough and mix well.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
7. 7.
   Fry the uštipci until golden brown on both sides, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
8. 8.
   Remove the uštipci from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Hercegovački Uštipci warm with your favorite dip or sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Make sure to crumble the feta cheese into small pieces to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough.
• Mozzarella cheese — Shred the mozzarella cheese using a grater or food processor for a smoother texture in the uštipci.
• Fresh parsley — Chop the parsley finely to release its aromatic flavors and distribute it evenly in the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Experiment with different herbs such as dill or chives to customize the taste according to your preference.
• Serve the uštipci with a side of ajvar, a traditional Balkan red pepper spread, for a delicious combination of flavors.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the uštipci in the oven instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Leftover uštipci can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Hercegovački Uštipci as an appetizer or a snack. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the frying pan. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the uštipci on a wooden board or a decorative plate. Sprinkle some additional chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Pair them with a variety of dips, such as tzatziki, hummus, or sour cream, to add a touch of freshness and creaminess.