Parmesan Puffs

Light and crispy cheese puffs made with finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, fried to golden perfection. These airy bites are perfect as an appetizer or party snack.

6 servings
33 min

Ingredients

  • 6 cups vegetable oil
  • ¼ pound finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 piece deep-fat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Heat 2 inches oil in a deep 3-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat until it registers 360°F on thermometer.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    While oil heats, mix together cheese, flour, pepper, and salt in a bowl until combined well. Beat whites in another bowl with an electric mixer until they just hold stiff peaks. Fold in 1/2 cup cheese mixture to lighten, then fold in remaining cheese mixture gently but thoroughly.

    8 min

  3. 3.

    Drop about 8 teaspoons of batter, 1 teaspoon at a time, into oil and fry, turning occasionally, until balls of batter are puffed, crisp, and golden, about 2 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain briefly. Make 3 more batches in same manner, returning oil to 360°F between batches. Serve immediately.

    15 min

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