The secret to perfectly crispy cheese balls Kenyans can’t stop making at home

If you’re looking for a simple yet crowd-pleasing snack to impress your guests this weekend, classic cheese balls are the perfect choice.

Crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and bursting with cheesy goodness, these bite-sized delights are ideal for family gatherings, parties, or even cosy movie nights.

Cheese balls have long been a favourite in both Kenyan and Somali homes, especially during Ramadan, Eid celebrations, or afternoon tea sessions.

The recipe is wonderfully versatile — you can make it spicy, herby, or even stuffed, depending on your mood and what’s available in your kitchen.

What you’ll need

Ingredients:

• 2 medium boiled potatoes, mashed

• 1 cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a mix of both for a richer flavour)

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 green chilli, minced (optional, for mild heat)

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)

• 3 tablespoons corn flour (to bind)

Other Topics To Read

• Food
• Deep frying
• corn flour
• black pepper
• breadcrumbs
• cheese balls
• classic cheese balls
• The secret to perfectly crispy cheese balls Kenyans can’t stop making at home
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• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

• 1 egg, beaten (for dipping before coating)

• Oil for deep frying

Steps to follow

Step 1:

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheese, onion, coriander, chilli, garlic, pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. Add corn flour gradually, one spoonful at a time, to form a soft but non-sticky dough.

Step 2:

Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into smooth balls about the size of a lime. Set aside and repeat until all the mixture is used.

Step 3:

Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. For extra crispiness, you can repeat this coating step twice.

Step 4:

Heat oil in a deep-frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully lower the cheese balls into the oil and fry in batches for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.

Step 5:

Remove the cheese balls and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while warm — that’s when the cheese is perfectly gooey and stretchy.

Serving suggestions

For a balanced and colourful platter, serve your cheese balls with:

• Sweet chilli sauce, garlic mayo, or tomato ketchup for dipping

• Fresh salad or coleslaw on the side

• A glass of fresh mango or strawberry smoothie to complete the snack moment

They also pair beautifully with masala tea or iced coffee, making them perfect for both daytime and evening treats.

If you prefer baking instead of frying, brush the cheese balls lightly with oil and bake at 180°C for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.