Crispy Greek Fried Cheese (Printable)

Golden crunchy exterior with melty interior, this iconic Greek appetizer delivers irresistible Mediterranean flavors in minutes.

# What goes in:

→ Cheese

01 - 9 ounces firm Greek cheese (Kefalotyri, Graviera, or Halloumi)

→ Coating

02 - 3 ounces all-purpose gluten-free flour
03 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Frying

04 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
05 - Lemon wedges for serving

# Directions:

01 - Cut the cheese into ½ inch thick slices or wedges. Pat each piece thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring proper crisping during frying.
02 - Spread the flour on a flat plate and season generously with black pepper. Press each cheese slice into the flour, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour to prevent a heavy batter.
03 - Pour olive oil into a non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle immediately when cheese is added.
04 - Carefully place cheese slices in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature.
05 - Transfer fried cheese to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crunch to melt ratio is absolutely perfect every single time
  • It is one of those appetizers that disappears faster than you can plate it
  • You probably have everything you need in your fridge right now
02 -
  • Dry cheese before dredging or the coating will not stick properly
  • Do not overcrowd the pan or the oil temperature will drop too much
  • These must be served immediately while the cheese is still molten inside
03 -
  • Let the cheese come to room temperature before cooking for even melting
  • A splatter screen is helpful because the oil will pop and sizzle

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