Saganaki is a Greek appetizer that is traditionally made with fried cheese. It is a simple dish that is quick to prepare and delicious to eat. The cheese used in Saganaki is typically a hard, salty cheese like Kefalograviera, Kefalotyri, or Halloumi.
Here’s a simple recipe to make Saganaki at home:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound of Kefalograviera cheese, sliced into thick wedges
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dredge each slice of cheese in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.
- When the oil is hot, add the cheese slices to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the cheese for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cheese from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve the Saganaki hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the cheese and garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional).
Variations of Saganaki
There are many variations of Saganaki that can be made to suit personal preferences and tastes. Here are some popular variations:
- Shrimp Saganaki: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink before adding the cheese.
- Mushroom Saganaki: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender before adding the cheese.
- Tomato Saganaki: Add diced tomatoes and garlic to the skillet and cook until the tomatoes are soft before adding the cheese.
- Spicy Saganaki: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos to the skillet for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Saganaki is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a dinner party or just looking for a tasty snack, Saganaki is a great choice. So why not give it a try and experience the rich, salty flavor of fried cheese in your own kitchen?
