Saganaki (fried cheese)

saganaki_(fried_cheese)

Greek cuisine has always been known for its delicious yet simple dishes. One dish that always stands out is Saganaki. Saganaki refers to the variety of dishes prepared in a small frying pan known as a Saganaki. However, the most popular dish known as Saganaki is the fried cheese dish served with lemon juice. It is a quintessential Greek dish that is enjoyed throughout the country as a meze (appetizer) or even as a dessert.

Saganaki has different variations throughout Greece, but it’s commonly made using a hard cheese such as Kefalotyri, Kasseri, or Graviera. These cheeses are perfect for frying because they soften but do not melt, resulting in a crispy exterior and creamy center. In this recipe, I will be using Kefalotyri cheese, which is made from sheep or goat’s milk and has a distinctive nutty flavor.

To make this dish, start by cutting the cheese into slices, around 1cm thick. It is important to ensure that the cheese is at room temperature before frying; this will prevent the cheese from sticking to the frying pan. Next, arrange the cheese slices in a plate and cover them with flour, which creates a coating that will help the cheese to fry evenly.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cheese slices to the pan, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese starts to turn golden brown. Carefully flip the cheese and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the other side is also golden brown.

Once the cheese is cooked, remove it from the skillet, and season it with freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidic taste of the lemon juice provides a nice contrast to the rich and salty flavor of the cheese. You can also sprinkle some dried oregano, which adds a herbaceous note that complements the cheese’s flavor.

Saganaki is often served with crusty bread, which is perfect for scooping up the melted cheese. It’s also common to serve it with a side of sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, which adds a fresh and crunchy texture to the dish. This is a simple yet delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

In conclusion, Saganaki is an iconic Greek dish that represents the country’s cuisine. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and preparation can create something so flavorful and satisfying. If you’re a cheese lover, you must try this recipe; it’s a cheese lover’s paradise. The crispy exterior, creamy center, and tangy lemon juice make it a perfect appetizer or even a meal on its own. Try making this dish, and you will see why it’s special to Greeks and why it should be on your table.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 pound of Greek Kefalograviera cheese
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1/4 fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley

Instructions:

  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour and black pepper
  2. Cut the Kefalograviera cheese into slices or cubes
  3. Dredge the cheese in the flour mixture, making sure to evenly coat all sides
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
  5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the dredged cheese in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd
  6. Cook the cheese until it starts to turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes
  7. Using a spatula, carefully flip the cheese and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown on both sides
  8. Once cooked, transfer the cheese to a serving platter
  9. Squeeze the lemon juice over the cheese and garnish with fresh chopped parsley
  10. Serve hot with toasted bread or pita bread. Enjoy!