Spinach cheese bombs are a delightful snack that combines the goodness of fresh spinach with melted cheese wrapped in a crispy golden crust. These bite-sized treats are perfect for teatime snacks, party appetizers, or even a quick indulgence. Making spinach cheese bombs at home lets you enjoy fresh ingredients and customize the cheese and seasoning to suit your taste. The blend of creamy cheese with flavorful spinach creates a tasty and satisfying snack that kids and adults both love. In this recipe, you will learn how to make spinach cheese bombs in five easy steps with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Step 1: Prepare the spinach filling with cheese and spices
Start by washing and finely chopping one and a half cups of fresh spinach leaves. In a pan, heat a teaspoon of oil and sauté finely chopped garlic and onions until translucent. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the leaves are wilted and soft. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Once cooked, transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl and let it cool. To this, add one cup of grated cheese, mozzarella or processed cheese works well for melting. Mix the spinach and cheese thoroughly to create a flavorful filling.
Step 2: Prepare the dough for the outer shell
For the outer covering, you can use either store-bought puff pastry or make a simple dough at home using all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and water. Knead the dough until it is smooth and pliable. Let it rest for about 15 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll. If using puff pastry, thaw it according to package instructions. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into small circles or squares, large enough to hold a spoonful of filling.
Step 3: Assemble the spinach cheese bombs
Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling in the center of each dough piece. Be careful not to overfill to avoid leakage during cooking. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon or square shape, depending on the dough shape. Press the edges firmly and seal them by crimping with a fork or pinching with your fingers. This step is crucial to keep the filling inside and maintain the shape during frying or baking.
Step 4: Cook the spinach cheese bombs until golden and crispy
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat if you prefer fried cheese bombs. Fry them in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the fried bombs with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Alternatively, you can bake the bombs in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Baking is a healthier option and still gives a crispy texture.
Step 5: Serve spinach cheese bombs with dipping sauces
Arrange the cooked spinach cheese bombs on a serving plate. They pair wonderfully with tomato ketchup, green chutney, or garlic mayonnaise. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander or a sprinkle of chaat masala for an extra burst of flavor. Serve them hot so that the cheese inside is deliciously gooey and the crust remains crispy. These spinach cheese bombs are great for parties, tea-time snacks, or as finger food for casual get-togethers.
Spinach cheese bombs are an easy-to-make, delicious snack that combines the nutritious benefits of spinach with the irresistible taste of melted cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this crispy and cheesy delight at home. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these cheese bombs are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy these warm, flavorful bites any time you crave a tasty snack that is both satisfying and wholesome.