Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chiles:

Begin by roasting the chili peppers. You can do this by placing them directly on a gas stove or broiling them in the oven, turning them until the skin is charred on all sides.

Once roasted, place the peppers in a covered bowl or plastic bag for about 10-15 minutes to loosen the skin.

Peel off the skin, then carefully slice the peppers open and remove the seeds. You should be left with a hollow pepper for stuffing.

2. Stuff the Peppers:

Stuff each pepper with the shredded cheese. Make sure to leave enough space at the ends for sealing.

After stuffing, lightly dust the outside of the peppers with a bit of flour. This helps the batter adhere better while frying.

3. Prepare the Batter:

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour, baking powder, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt.

Add the egg and milk to the dry ingredients, and whisk until you have a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the chiles without dripping off easily. Adjust with more milk or flour if needed.

4. Shape the Balls:

Once the peppers are stuffed and dusted with flour, carefully dip them into the batter, coating them evenly.

Use your hands or a spoon to form the battered peppers into ball shapes, pressing gently to seal them into compact, round forms.

5. Fry the Balls:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chili balls.

Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the chili balls in the oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the balls are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Once cooked, remove the chili balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

Serve the chili relleno balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy!

These Chili Relleno Balls are a perfect combination of cheese-filled deliciousness, a crispy batter, and a hint of spice from the chiles. They’re easy to make and will definitely be a hit at any gathering! 🌶️🧀