Saganaki(Fried Cheese)
A classic Greek dish featuring crispy fried cheese infused with brandy and lemon, offering rich, savory flavors perfect as an appetizer or shared snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large frying pan until melted and foam has subsided.
- Beat the egg and flour together in a bowl.
- Dip the cheese slices into the egg mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Fry the coated cheese slices until they are well browned on both sides.
- Pour brandy over the cheese in the skillet and ignite carefully to flambé.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the cheese and allow the flame to subside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for coating the cheese. If you can't find Kasseri cheese, you can substitute with Halloumi or a mild, semi-soft cheese. Make sure to keep the heat medium-high to achieve a golden-brown finish without burning. Flambéing adds flavor, but if you're uncomfortable, you can skip this step and simply drizzle the brandy over before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Saganaki is best served immediately while hot and crispy. Pair it with crusty bread, olives, or a fresh salad for a delightful appetizer. It also complements Mediterranean dishes like Cabbage And White Bean Soup or Eggplant And Friends beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple pasta dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Saganaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cheese in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery. Enjoy it again as a snack or appetizer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saganaki(Fried Cheese) contains roughly 131 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for Saganaki?
Yes, while Kasseri is traditional, you can use Halloumi or even a mild mozzarella for a similar texture. Just ensure it can withstand frying without melting completely.
What can I do if I don't want to flambé the cheese?
If you're hesitant about flambéing, simply drizzle the brandy over the fried cheese and let it absorb the flavor. You can also serve it with a dash of lemon juice for brightness without the flame.
Is Saganaki suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Saganaki is a vegetarian dish as it primarily consists of cheese and egg. It fits well within vegetarian recipes, making it a delicious option for those avoiding meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).