Adsum Farmhouse Jalapeño Pepper Cheese Balls

BY RICHARD CORNISH

My goodness these are tasty. Tasty and zesty. Beautiful, pickled jalapeño peppers from farmers Edward and Fiona Benedict who grew them over summer at their beautiful little farm in the heart of historic Glenlyon. Known for its deep, rich volcanic soil, Glenlyon is potato country as well as home to some of the most accomplished small vegetable growers in the region. Adsum Farmhouse pickles are superb, and their pickled jalapeños are full flavoured and pack warm heat that adds a little punch to these delicious little cheese balls served with a spicy green pepper sauce. Even better with when they are made with fresh Adsum Farmhouse jalapeño peppers when they are in season.

Ingredients

Sauce
2 fresh jalapeño peppers (or 1 green capsicum and 2 small red chilis)
1 medium bunch coriander, stems removed
2 cloves of garlic
3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
150ml (½ cup) extra virgin olive oil

100g pickled Adsum Farmhouse Jalapeño Peppers, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
200g ricotta
200g soft goat cheese
4 tablespoons grated parmesan
3 eggs
2 cups sourdough breadcrumbs
1 pack panko breadcrumbs
oil for deep frying
salt

Method

Drain the pickled jalapeño peppers. Pat dry with paper towel. Chop finely and place in a bowl with the lemon rind, cheeses, breadcrumbs and two eggs. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Let sit for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile make the sauce by remove the stalk, seeds and white pith of the peppers. Discard or compost. Chop into large pieces and add to a food processor with the coriander, garlic, sherry and extra virgin olive oil. Blend on high for several minutes or until smooth. Season to taste. Use within an hour of preparation or refrigerate and use within one day.

To make the balls, roll into small balls the size of a walnut. Roll the balls in the panko. Let them sit. Heat oil to 175°C. Fry the balls in small batches until golden brown. Allow to drain on paper towel. Season with salt. Serve with the jalapeño coriander sauce, cold beer or a glass of cold white wine or spicy Italian or Spanish red wine.