Crispy Fried Goat Cheese with Za’atar: A Delightful Appetizer

A crunch of golden-brown goodness awaits with every bite of Fried Goat Cheese. Imagine the creamy, tangy cheese escaping its crispy coating and melting into your mouth, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This not-so-humble appetizer elevates any gathering, making it a hit at dinner parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in.

Picture yourself serving this delectable dish as your friends savor the crispy crust and aromatic za’atar, a blend of herbs that transports you to the Mediterranean with its hints of thyme, oregano, and sumac. Fried Goat Cheese isn’t just food; it’s a joyful experience that brings laughter and connection with every shared plate. So, grab your ingredients and let’s fry up some memories.

Ingredients for Fried Goat Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Fried Goat Cheese:

10-ounce log goat cheese – Look for a creamy texture for the best frying results and a tangy flavor profile.

1 egg – This will serve as the adhesive to hold the crumbs on the cheese.

1/4 cup all-purpose flour – A light coating of flour helps the egg stick better, creating a solid base for the breadcrumbs.

1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Use either plain or seasoned for added flavor; panko gives a delightful crunch.

1/4 cup za’atar – This spice mix adds Mediterranean flair, enhancing the flavor profile with its unique herb blend.

Extra virgin olive oil – Opt for high-quality oil for frying, contributing to the overall taste and crispiness.

How to Make Fried Goat Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Fried Goat Cheese:

Step 1: Freeze the Cheese
Start by placing the goat cheese log in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This will firm up the cheese and make it much easier to slice into clean discs.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Crack the egg into a shallow bowl and whisk in 1 tablespoon of water until combined. Set up two more shallow bowls: one for flour and another for breadcrumbs. Make sure you have a plate ready for the za’atar.

Step 3: Slice the Cheese
Remove the goat cheese from the freezer and slice it into 1/2-inch discs. You want them thick enough to hold up during the frying process but not too thick, or they won’t heat through properly.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese
Dip each slice into the egg mixture first, ensuring it’s well-coated. Then, dredge it through the flour, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs. Shake off any excess crumbs and set them aside on a cutting board.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large nonstick skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, it’s time to fry.

Step 6: Fry the Cheese
Carefully add the goat cheese discs to the skillet in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Fry each side for about 30 seconds, allowing them to turn a beautiful golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Finally, while they’re still hot, roll each disc in the za’atar for an aromatic finish. Transfer to a serving plate and serve them immediately for the best crispy experience.

Now, your Fried Goat Cheese is ready to tantalize taste buds! Whether enjoyed as a standalone appetizer or paired with a fresh salad, this dish guarantees smiles and compliments around the table. Enjoy the laughter and camaraderie that comes with sharing this delightful treat!

Perfecting Fried Goat Cheese Cooking Process

To create the perfect fried goat cheese, start by freezing the cheese for about 15 minutes. Prepare your coating and heat the oil while the cheese firms up. Finally, fry the discs until they’re golden brown, ensuring perfect texture and flavor.

Add Your Touch to Fried Goat Cheese

Feel free to swap the za’atar with your favorite seasoning like Italian herbs or chili flakes for extra kick. You can also try adding fresh herbs or minced garlic to the breadcrumbs for a burst of flavor that will wow your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating Fried Goat Cheese

Store leftover fried goat cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until crispy again, avoiding sogginess in the microwave.

Sharing my first experience making fried goat cheese brings a smile to my face; my friends devoured it, demanding the recipe, and it quickly became the surprise star of our gatherings.

FAQs About Fried Goat Cheese

What is Fried Goat Cheese?

Fried goat cheese is a delightful appetizer that features rounds of creamy goat cheese coated in a crunchy crust. Typically, the cheese is frozen briefly to help it maintain its shape while frying. The cheese is then dipped in an egg mixture, coated with flour and breadcrumbs, and cooked until golden brown. The result is a crispy outer layer that gives way to the soft, tangy cheese inside. It’s often served with a sprinkle of za’atar or paired with fruits and nuts for a beautiful presentation.

How do you make Fried Goat Cheese crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispy texture for your fried goat cheese, make sure to coat the cheese evenly with each layer: first dip it in egg, then flour, and finally breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensuring that the oil is hot enough before adding the cheese is crucial. Frying the cheese in small batches prevents overcrowding the pan, resulting in even cooking and an irresistibly crunchy crust.

Can I substitute ingredients in Fried Goat Cheese?

Certainly! Fried goat cheese is highly versatile. While za’atar adds a flavorful twist, you can opt for other seasonings like Italian herbs or chili flakes if you’re looking for a little extra kick. You might also swap the breadcrumbs for crushed nuts to enhance the flavor and texture. Fresh herbs or minced garlic can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.

How can I store and reheat Fried Goat Cheese?

To store leftover fried goat cheese, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, the oven is your best option. Preheat the oven to 350°F and heat the cheese for a few minutes, ensuring it remains crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can lead to a soggy texture that diminishes the delightful crunch you love.

Conclusion for Fried Goat Cheese

In summary, fried goat cheese is a delightful and easy appetizer that adds a touch of gourmet to any gathering. By mastering the frying technique and experimenting with different seasonings, you can customize this dish to your taste. Whether you choose to serve it atop a salad, alongside fruits, or as a standalone treat, fried goat cheese is sure to impress your guests and unleash those flavor-packed moments. Don’t forget to enjoy it hot for the best experience!

Crispy Fried Goat Cheese with Za'atar

Crispy Fried Goat Cheese with Za'atar is a delightful appetizer that offers a crunchy exterior and creamy center, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 minute min

Total Time 21 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 99.6

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 10 ounce goat cheese
• 1 egg
• 0.25 cup all purpose flour plus more if needed
• 0.25 cup breadcrumbs plus more if needed
• 0.25 cup za’atar
• extra virgin olive oil for frying

Equipment

• shallow bowls
• nonstick skillet
• cutting board
• Plate

Method

 

Cooking Instructions

1. Freeze the cheese for 15 minutes to make it easier to slice and help it keep its shape when fried.
2. Crack the egg into a shallow bowl, add 1 tablespoon of water, and whisk until combined. Set up two more shallow bowls: one with flour and another with breadcrumbs. Set a plate with the za’atar to the side.
3. Remove the cheese from the freezer, slice it into 1/2-inch discs.
4. Dip each goat cheese disc into the egg mixture, then coat with flour, and finally the breadcrumbs. Shake off any excess crumbs and set aside on a large cutting board or sheet tray.
5. Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add goat cheese discs without crowding the pan. Cook until golden brown, about 30 seconds per side.
6. Remove from heat and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
7. While the cheese is still hot, roll each disc in the plate of za’atar to coat.
8. Transfer to a serving plate and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 99.6kcalCarbohydrates: 6.8gProtein: 5.9gFat: 5.8gCholesterol: 24.5mgSodium: 111.4mgPotassium: 58.5mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.5gCalcium: 132.8mgIron: 6.8mg

Notes

For best results, ensure the cheese is well-frozen and do not overcrowd the pan when frying. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!