Classic French nibbles that are devilishly moreish
Ingredients
- 85g plain flour
- 50g butter, chopped
- 50g mature gruyère, grated
- 25g fresh parmesan (or vegetarian alternative), finely grated
- 2 eggs, well beaten
- 1l vegetable oil, for deep frying
Method
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Sift the flour and a little salt into a bowl. Set a non-stick pan on the heat with 150ml cold water and the chopped butter. Bring to the boil, stirring until the butter melts. Tip in all the flour and, using a wooden spoon, beat hard until the mix becomes smooth and starts to leave the side of the pan.
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Remove from the heat, beat in the gruyère and half the parmesan and cool for 5 mins. Gradually beat in the eggs until you have a smooth, thick, but spoonable mix – you may not need all the egg. Can be set aside now for 2 hrs without chilling.
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When ready to serve, heat the oil in a deep-fat frying pan to around 180C. Using 2 teaspoons scoop up neat dollops and carefully drop into the hot oil. Fry 6-8 dollops a time for 3-4 mins until golden and crisp – dunk the dollops under to brown evenly. Reheat the oil as necessary. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with the rest of the parmesan. Serve hot.