Simple Saganaki Recipe - Greek Fried Cheese

[d_kakavouli]

I usually just like to order this when I go out, but I found this recipe and thought I'd give it a try. It was surprisingly easy! I wanted to share:

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm Greek cheese (about ½ inch thick): kefalotyri, kasseri, or graviera work best
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• Olive oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the cheese slice quickly under water – this helps the flour stick.
2. Dredge the cheese in flour on all sides, shaking off any excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a small nonstick or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
4. Once hot, add the cheese and fry for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

I don't do the Ouzo part by the way, so I left it out I don't like the flavor of it and I fin the fire to be a little scary!

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Thanks for sharing this! I’ve always loved ordering saganaki at tavernas, but I’ve never actually tried making it at home, your step-by-step makes it feel totally doable. I appreciate that you skipped the ouzo flambé part too… I’m with you there, delicious, but the fire can be a bit much in a home kitchen!

I usually have graviera or kasseri in the fridge, so I might give this a go next time I’m craving something salty and crispy. Do you think it would still work if I cut the cheese into smaller wedges for more bite-sized pieces? Also wondering if a squeeze of orange instead of lemon would add a different twist.