Planning a get-together for New Year's?
Do you scoff at the notion of "easy holiday entertaining"?
Would you rather splurge on festive beverages than on dinner reservations?
Did you manage to score dinner reservations that are so late in the evening you'll need to eat hours beforehand?
'Tis this the season to save, rather than spend?
If you nodded in an affirmative manner at one or more of these questions, follow our lead. This appetizer-size recipe is quick, easy, fun to look at and inexpensive to make.
Beer Cheese Balls
(Serves 8)
These are mini versions of a holiday party classic, made a bit more interesting with the addition of a full-flavored brew and Worcestershire sauce.
Ingredients
230g chunked, aged cheddar
230g Swiss or Emmental cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tspn powdered mustard
2 tspn Worcestershire sauce
3/4 cup of beer
230g pecan nuts
Method
Combine the cheddar and Swiss or Emmental cheese in a food processor
Pulse until crumbly.
Add minced garlic cloves, powdered mustard and Worcestershire sauce; pulse to incorporate.
With the motor running, gradually add 3/4 cup beer to form a fairly smooth puree.
Form the mixture into 24 to 26 small balls.
Place 230g of small pecan pieces in a zip-top bag.
Add 1 or 2 balls at a time and gently press to coat.
Refrigerate until ready to serve, with toothpicks.