Sesame Cheese Bites

Sesame Cheese Bites are a delightful and creamy snack that merges the mildness of homemade cheese with the nutty flavor of toasted sesame seeds. This dish is perfect for those looking to impress guests with a homemade delicacy that's both versatile and delicious. The preparation involves creating a simple cheese from basic ingredients like milk, sour cream, and eggs, which is then formed and chilled for a perfectly firm yet soft texture. The cheese is later cut into bite-sized pieces and coated in crunchy sesame seeds, adding an additional layer of flavor and texture. This snack can be enjoyed on its own or spiced up with various seasonings for an extra kick. Suitable for any occasion, it is a gluten-free option and can be adapted to suit different dietary needs. With a preparation time of just 60 minutes and easy-to-follow steps, it’s an ideal recipe for novice cooks and skilled chefs alike. Accompany these bites with a selection of fresh fruits or a light salad for a balanced snack or appetizer. Best served chilled, Sesame Cheese Bites are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 0.5 liters of milk
• 200 grams of sour cream
• 2 eggs
• Sesame seeds
• Salt
• Cheesecloth
• Strainer or colander

Preparation Time

• Total: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pour 0.5 liters of milk into a saucepan, add a pinch of salt, and heat gently until the first bubbles appear. Do not bring to a full boil.
2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat 2 eggs with a fork and mix in 200 grams of sour cream until well combined.
3. Slowly pour the egg and sour cream mixture into the heated milk, stirring continuously.
4. Reduce the heat to low and maintain a gentle simmer, stirring until the mixture’s curds begin to separate from the whey, forming small granules. This process will take about 7 to 10 minutes.
5. Place a strainer lined with cheesecloth over another saucepan or bowl. Carefully pour the heated mixture into the lined strainer.
6. Allow the whey to drain completely by pressing the curds with a spatula or spoon. You may wrap the curds in the cheesecloth and squeeze to remove as much liquid as possible.
7. To shape the cheese, either leave it wrapped in cheesecloth with a weight on top for a firmer texture or transfer it into a mold for a softer consistency.
8. Refrigerate the cheese for at least 2 hours or overnight for a firmer texture.
9. In a dry pan, lightly toast sesame seeds until golden brown and fragrant.
10. Remove the cheese from the refrigerator and cut it into your desired size of bites or cubes.
11. Roll each cheese piece in the toasted sesame seeds, ensuring a generous coating.
12. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy your Sesame Cheese Bites!
13. Experiment by adding herbs or spices into the cheese mixture before refrigerating for added flavor.
14. For variations, infuse the milk with herbs or garlic for a flavored cheese.

Tips

• Strain Well: Ensure all the whey is drained to achieve the right consistency.
• Herb Variations: Fresh or dried herbs, like dill or chives, can be added to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
• Storage: Keep unused cheese bites in the refrigerator within an airtight container for freshness.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving
• Protein: 8 grams
• Fats: 9 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4 grams

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add crushed red peppers or paprika to the cheese mixture.
• Use different seeds, like flaxseeds or sunflower seeds, as a coating for varied flavors.
• Substitute dairy-free versions of milk and sour cream for a lactose-free option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crackers or fresh baguette slices.
• Pair with fresh fruit or a mixed greens salad.
• Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water.

Best Places

• The Cheese Bar - A haven for cheese lovers offering various cheesy delights. Location: 47-49 Camden Passage, London, UK.
• Artisan Cheese Gallery - Known for artisanal cheese selections and unique pairings. Location: 12023 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, USA.
• Fromagerie Danard - Specializes in French cheeses and fine foods. Location: 5 Rue du Colonel Driant, Paris, France.
• Cheesetique - Wine bar and gourmet cheese shop offering diverse cheese boards. Location: 2411 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, USA.
• Milk the Cow - Offers over 150 cheeses from around the world. Location: 157 Fitzroy St, St Kilda, Australia.
• La Formaggeria Gran Moravia - Offers exceptional Italian cheeses and specialties. Location: Malé Náměstí 143, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Beecher's Handmade Cheese - Famous for artisanal cheesemaking with a glass-walled view for visitors. Location: 1600 Pike Place, Seattle, USA.
• Say Cheese - Known for a curated selection of gourmet and artisanal cheeses. Location: 2800 Hyperion Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• Gouda Cheese Shop - Specializes in Dutch cheese varieties and tastings. Location: Markt 34, Gouda, Netherlands.
• Shakespeare and Co. Café - Combines book shopping with a quaint café serving gourmet bites. Location: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, Paris, France.