Cottage Cheese Tots

These Cottage Cheese Tots bring together the gentle creaminess of cottage cheese with the satisfying crispness of a golden breadcrumb crust. Light yet nourishing, they offer a delicate balance of soft interior and crisp exterior, enhanced by subtle herbs and a mild dairy richness. Ideal for everyday cooking, family gatherings, or cold days when warm, comforting bites are most welcome, they serve equally well as a snack, side dish, or appetizer that pairs beautifully with creamy or tangy dips.

Servings

Servings: 4–6 servings

Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredient List

Main Ingredients

• 450 g cottage cheese, drained well

• 120 g grated mozzarella cheese

• 80 g all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg

• 40 g finely chopped scallions

• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (approximately 3 g)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)

• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Seasoning & Crust

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• ½ tsp ground white pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 180 g breadcrumbs (fine, for coating)

• Oil for frying (sunflower or vegetable oil, approx. 800 ml depending on pot size)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1 – Build the Aroma Base

Begin by preparing the foundation of flavor for the tots. Place the well-drained cottage cheese in a mixing bowl. Press lightly with a spoon or spatula to break down larger curds; the mixture should remain textured but cohesive. Add the grated mozzarella, chopped scallions, minced garlic, and dill if using. Stir gently to combine. At this stage, the aromas are fresh and herbal, with mild dairy notes and the faint sharpness of garlic.
Once the mixture is evenly blended, incorporate the flour, egg, salt, white pepper, and smoked paprika. Fold carefully until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. The mixture should hold its shape when lightly pinched. If it feels too wet, add a small amount of flour (1–2 teaspoons at a time) to achieve the correct consistency.

2 – Shape & Prepare for Cooking

Prepare a tray lined with parchment paper. Using lightly damp hands, shape the mixture into small cylinders about 3 cm long. Roll each piece gently in your palms to ensure a smooth form.
Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Coat each shaped tot generously in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to encourage adhesion. Arrange the coated tots on the prepared tray.
Allow them to rest for 5 minutes; this brief pause helps the coating settle and ensures a crisp, even crust during frying.

3 – Fry to Crispness

In a medium pot or deep pan, heat oil to 175°C. The temperature should remain steady; too low will cause the tots to absorb excess oil, while too high will brown them prematurely.
Working in small batches, lower the tots carefully into the hot oil. Fry for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece develops a uniform golden-brown crust. The interior will warm gently, preserving the creamy cottage cheese texture while the exterior becomes crisp and aromatic.
Transfer the finished tots to a tray lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Continue until all tots are fried, maintaining consistent oil temperature throughout.

4 – Serve

Serve the Cottage Cheese Tots immediately while warm, when their contrast of textures is at its best. Present them alongside a selection of dips that complement their mild, dairy-forward flavor: a herb-infused yogurt sauce, tangy tomato relish, or a simple sour cream and chive dip.
Arrange the tots on a shallow plate or serving board, allowing their crisp edges and subtle flecks of herbs to remain visible. Enjoy them as a comforting snack, a refined appetizer, or a versatile side to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.

Variations

1. Herb-Forward Version: Add chopped parsley, dill, or chives to intensify freshness and brighten the overall profile.

2. Spiced Variation: Incorporate cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a mild heat that contrasts with the creamy interior.

3. Cheese-Rich Tots: Replace half the mozzarella with sharp cheddar for a deeper, more pronounced flavor.

4. Vegetable-Enhanced Version: Fold in finely grated carrots or zucchini (well squeezed of moisture) for added color and nutrition.

5. Baked Alternative: Brush the tots lightly with oil and bake at 200°C for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through, for a lighter preparation.

Tips

1. Drain the Cottage Cheese Thoroughly: Excess moisture prevents the tots from holding their shape. Press gently through a sieve if necessary.

2. Maintain Oil Temperature: A consistent 175°C ensures even browning and prevents sogginess. A kitchen thermometer is helpful.

3. Do Not Overmix: Combine ingredients gently to maintain the delicate texture of the cheese curds.

4. Test Fry One Tot First: This helps you adjust seasoning or texture before committing the entire batch.

5. Storage Guidance: Refrigerate cooked tots for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 190°C for 8–10 minutes. They can also be frozen before frying and cooked directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to frying time.