Crispy Greek Fried Cheese (Print)
Golden, crunchy exterior with melty interior - a beloved Greek appetizer ready in 20 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Cheese
01 - 9 oz firm Greek cheese (Kefalotyri, Graviera, or Halloumi)
→ Coating
02 - 3 oz all-purpose gluten-free flour
03 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Frying
04 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
05 - Lemon wedges, to serve
# How-To Steps:
01 - Slice the firm Greek cheese into ½-inch thick pieces. Pat each slice thoroughly with paper towels to remove surface moisture, ensuring even crisping during frying.
02 - Spread the gluten-free flour on a flat plate. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper, mixing evenly to distribute the seasoning throughout the flour.
03 - Press each cheese slice into the seasoned flour, coating both sides completely. Shake gently to remove excess flour, preventing a gummy texture during frying.
04 - Pour extra virgin olive oil into a non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking, approximately 350°F.
05 - Carefully place coated cheese slices in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden-brown and crispy, watching closely to prevent burning.
06 - Transfer fried cheese to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and melty, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The sound it makes when hot lemon hits the sizzling cheese is worth making it alone
- Its impossible not to feel like youre dining on a Greek island even on a Tuesday night
02 -
- Moisture is your enemy here, dry the cheese thoroughly or the coating will slide off
- Have your plates ready before you start frying, this waits for no one
03 -
- Never walk away from the pan, the transformation from golden to burned happens in seconds
- Let the cheese come to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for more even melting