Description
A gourmet appetizer featuring fried goat cheese rounds coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust infused with fresh herbs. This dish combines a crunchy exterior with a creamy, tangy, herbaceous interior, perfect for parties or elegant snacking.
Ingredients
Cheese and Herbs
- Goat Cheese Rounds, about 1/2 inch thick
- Fresh Herbs (parsley, chives, thyme), finely chopped
Coating
- All-Purpose Flour, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper
- Eggs, beaten (for binding)
- Panko Breadcrumbs mixed with additional chopped fresh herbs
Frying
- Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil (enough for frying, about 1-2 cups)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese and Herbs: Slice the goat cheese into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Finely chop the fresh herbs and gently press a small layer onto both sides of each cheese round to infuse flavor.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In separate shallow bowls, place the flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with more chopped fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Coat the Cheese: Dredge each cheese round in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture firmly so the cheese rounds are evenly coated on all sides.
- Chill the Coated Cheese: Place the breaded cheese rounds on a baking tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the coating set and prevent melting during frying.
- Fry the Cheese: Heat oil in a heavy pan over medium heat. Fry each cheese round for about 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the satisfying contrast between the creamy cheese and crunchy crust.
Notes
- Chill thoroughly before frying to maintain shape and prevent cheese from oozing out.
- Use fresh herbs to significantly enhance flavor over dried herbs.
- Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature consistent and maintain a crisp crust.
- Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the crust while melting the cheese center.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels after frying to keep the dish light and crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg