1. | Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy 3-quart saucepan to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. |
2. | In a small bowl, mix grated cheese, flour, salt and pepper. Set aside. |
3. | In a mixing bowl, add egg whites and beat with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. |
4. | Add 1/2 cup of cheese mixture and gently mix until ingredients are incorporated. |
5. | Add remaining cheese mixture and gently mix into a soft ball. |
6. | Use a cookie scoop to form 1-inch balls. |
7. | Carefully drop cheese puffs into hot oil and cook until crisp on both sides. (Recommended to fry cheese puffs in batches of 8 to 10 balls.) |
8. | Transfer cheese puffs to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. |
9. | Transfer to serving plate and enjoy! |