Panfried Cheese

Panfried cheese is a universally loved dish that is quick and easy to prepare. While the technique remains the same, the choice of cheese can vary, allowing for a range of flavors and textures. This recipe highlights the Spanish version, featuring paprika and sheep’s milk cheese like manchego. However, other cheeses such as Edam, Gouda, provolone, mozzarella, kasseri, or feta can also be used. Soft cheeses hold their shape better during cooking when well chilled, so it’s recommended to coat and refrigerate them if possible. Within 20 minutes, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful panfried cheese slices that make for a delightful appetizer or snack.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 pound mild soft sheep’s milk or other cheese, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup fine bread crumbs, preferably fresh
• Extra virgin olive oil for frying

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and paprika.
2. Dredge the cheese slices in the flour mixture, then dip them into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them with the fine bread crumbs. For best results, if time allows, place the coated cheese slices on wax paper and refrigerate for an hour or longer. Chilling the cheese helps it retain its shape during frying.
3. In a heavy skillet, heat enough extra virgin olive oil to cover at least 1/8 inch of the pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmers, carefully place the coated cheese slices in the skillet.
4. Fry the cheese slices until they turn golden brown, which typically takes about 30 seconds. Then, flip the slices over to brown the other side. Pay attention to prevent overcooking or burning.
5. Once both sides are nicely browned, remove the panfried cheese slices from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve the panfried cheese slices as soon as possible while they are still warm and crispy.

VARIATIONS:

• Smoky Paprika Panfried Cheese: Enhance the smoky flavors by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika in the flour mixture. This variation pairs well with cheeses like provolone or Gouda.

• Herbed Panfried Cheese: Add a burst of freshness by incorporating dried herbs into the bread crumbs. Mix in herbs such as dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary before coating the cheese slices. This variation complements cheeses like mozzarella or feta.

• Spicy Panfried Cheese: For those who enjoy heat, add some spice to the coating mixture. Mix in cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot paprika with the flour for an extra kick. This variation works well with cheeses like kasseri or provolone.

• Citrus Zest Panfried Cheese: Add a zesty and refreshing twist by incorporating citrus zest into the bread crumbs. Grate the zest of lemon, lime, or orange and mix it into the bread crumbs before coating the cheese slices. This variation pairs nicely with cheeses like mozzarella or manchego.

NOTE:

Panfried cheese is best enjoyed fresh and hot. It can be served as an appetizer, part of a cheese platter, or as a delicious snack. The combination of the crispy exterior and the gooey melted cheese inside creates an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors. Get creative and experiment with different cheeses and seasoning variations to find your favorite panfried cheese combination.