Smažený Sýr, or Fried Cheese, is a beloved Czech dish that features breaded and fried cheese, typically served with tartar sauce and a side of potatoes or a fresh salad. This delicious and comforting dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Follow this recipe to create authentic Smažený Sýr at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of Edam, Gouda, or Swiss cheese (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
For the Tartar Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles
- 1 tablespoon capers, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Cheese:
- Bread the Cheese:
- Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Dredge each slice of cheese in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it in the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Repeat the process to ensure a thick coating.
- Chill the Cheese:
- Place the breaded cheese slices on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the coating adhere.
Preparing the Tartar Sauce:
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped pickles, capers, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Frying the Cheese:
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Cheese:
- Carefully place the breaded cheese slices in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving:
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Smažený Sýr hot, garnished with lemon wedges and accompanied by the tartar sauce. Enjoy with a side of potatoes or a fresh salad.
Smažený Sýr is a delicious and comforting Czech dish that combines crispy, breaded cheese with a tangy tartar sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this dish brings the authentic taste of Czech cuisine to your table. Enjoy this easy and delightful recipe. Dobrou chuť (Enjoy your meal)!