Introduction
Smažený Sýr, or fried cheese, is a beloved Czech dish made from thick slices of cheese, typically Edam or Hermelín, coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden brown. This crispy delight is often served with a side of tartar sauce, potatoes, or a fresh salad. It's a popular choice for vegetarians and a staple in Czech pubs and restaurants.
Ingredients
- 2 large slices of cheese (Edam or Hermelín)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- Optional: Tartar sauce (for serving)
- Optional: Potatoes or salad (for serving)
Instructions
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Prepare the Cheese:
- Start by cutting the cheese into thick slices, about 1 inch thick. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy crust.
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Set Up a Breading Station:
- In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of salt to the flour and breadcrumbs for seasoning.
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Bread the Cheese:
- Dredge each slice of cheese in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured cheese into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the cheese in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well. Ensure an even coating for a crispy texture.
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Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. To test the oil, drop in a few breadcrumbs; they should sizzle when the oil is ready.
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Fry the Cheese:
- Carefully add the breaded cheese slices to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them, ensuring even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the fried cheese to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Serve:
- Serve the Smažený Sýr hot with tartar sauce on the side. It pairs wonderfully with fried potatoes, a simple salad, or fresh bread.
Health Notes
- Smažený Sýr is high in calories and fat due to the frying process. While it can be enjoyed as an indulgent treat, consider moderation if you are watching your calorie intake. Pairing it with fresh vegetables can help balance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Smažený Sýr can be served as a main dish or as a hearty snack. It is often enjoyed with fried potatoes or a light salad to complement the richness of the cheese.
Tips
- Cheese Selection: Use a cheese that melts well, such as Edam or Hermelín, for the best texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses for varied tastes.
- Breading Variations: For extra flavor, consider mixing herbs or spices into the breadcrumbs, such as garlic powder or paprika.
- Oven Alternative: For a healthier option, you can bake the breaded cheese in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
