Frico (Baked Cheese Crisps)

Elevate your snack game with Frico, the epitome of simplicity, and flavor. This one-ingredient wonder, derived from the Italian tradition, showcases the irresistible allure of cheese crisps. A perfectly golden, delicate cheese crisp, made primarily from Montasio cheese, Frico is a symphony of textures and flavors. The magic unfolds as shredded cheese is artfully sprinkled into a pan, melted, and then masterfully browned to form an airy, crisp wafer. The result is an enticing treat with a light, heavenly texture and an intense cheese essence. The choice of pan, heat, and technique plays a pivotal role in achieving the ultimate Frico experience. A 10-inch nonstick skillet is the key to success, offering a smooth release without requiring additional oil or butter. The careful process of browning one side, then flipping and browning the other ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Montasio cheese, though a bit challenging to find, is the star of this dish; however, aged Asiago is a wonderful substitute that captures the essence of Frico.

MAKES 8 LARGE WAFERS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound Montasio or aged Asiago cheese, shredded (4 cups)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by sprinkling ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the bottom of a 10-inch nonstick skillet.
2. Cook the cheese over medium-high heat, occasionally shaking the pan to ensure even distribution, until the edges become lacy and toasted, approximately 4 minutes.
3. As the cheese melts, use a spatula to gently tidy the lacy outer edges to prevent burning.
4. Remove the pan from heat and allow the cheese to set for about 30 seconds.
5. Carefully flip the cheese wafer using a fork and spatula, and return the pan to medium-high heat.
6. Cook until the second side turns a golden brown, which typically takes around 2 minutes.
7. Slide the cheese wafer out of the pan onto a plate.
8. Repeat the process with the remaining cheese to create additional Frico wafers.
9. Serve the Frico crisps as a delightful, crunchy snack.

TIPS:

• Pan Selection: Opt for a 10-inch nonstick skillet, ensuring a seamless release and even browning without the need for added fats.
• Shredding Cheese: Start with high-quality Montasio or aged Asiago cheese. Shred it finely for even melting and uniform crisps.
• Heat Management: The key to Frico perfection is controlling the heat. Avoid high heat, which can result in bitterness, and opt for a medium-high to medium range for optimal results.
• Shaking the Pan: When adding the shredded cheese to the pan, gently shake it to distribute the cheese evenly across the bottom, creating a lacy edge.
• Preventing Burning: As the cheese begins to melt, use a spatula to gently push and tidy the lacy outer edges of the cheese, preventing them from burning.
• Flipping Technique: After browning one side, remove the pan from heat, allowing the cheese to set for about 30 seconds. Use a fork and spatula to carefully flip the cheese wafer and return the pan to medium-high heat for the second side.
• Cheese Selection: Montasio cheese is traditional for Frico, but if unavailable, aged Asiago serves as an excellent substitute, delivering a similar rich flavor.

Indulge in the delightful crunch and exquisite flavor of Frico, a simple yet impressive snack that’s sure to captivate your taste buds. Embrace the art of perfectly crafted cheese crisps as you savor every airy, cheesy bite. Whether served on their own or as an elegant addition to a charcuterie board, Frico wafers bring the essence of Italian culinary tradition right to your table.