Fried Cheese (Saganaki)

  • 4
  • 15 mins
  • 30 mins

Ingredients

  • 1/2 1/2 1/2 lb kefalotiri or kasseri cheese
  • 1/4 1/4 About 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • olive oil for frying
  • 1 1 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 2 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving

Preparation

Step 1

Cut the cheese into slices 1/2 inch thick, about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. Rinse the cheese in cold water to remove excess salt, then pat dry with paper towels. Spread the flour on a plate and season it with the pepper. Dip the cheese pieces in the seasoned flour, turning to coat evenly on both sides.


In a large, heavy sauté pan, pour in olive oil to a depth of 1/4 inch. Place over high heat until very hot but not smoking. Working with 2 or 3 cheese pieces at a time, carefully slip the pieces into the hot oil and fry, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cheese to paper towels to drain. Keep warm until all the pieces are cooked.


Arrange the cheese on a warmed platter and sprinkle with the oregano and lemon juice. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.


Recipe reprinted by permission of Weldon Owen. All rights reserved.
Date Added: 01/01/2008

Nutrition Facts per Serving
Yield: Yield:  Serves 4
Calories: 284
Fat. Total: 21g
Fiber: 1g
Carbohydrates, Total: 11g
Sodium: 537mg
% Cal. from Fat: 67%
Cholesterol: 57mg
Protein: 15g