Bosnian Fried Cheese (Prženi Sir)
A simple yet delicious appetizer or snack, Bosnian Fried Cheese involves coating slices of firm cheese in breadcrumbs and frying them until golden and crispy. It's often served with a side of ajvar or a tart sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Firm white cheese (like Kashkaval, Trappist, or a firm local cheese)(cut into 1-1.5 cm thick slices)
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 2 large Eggs
- 150 g Breadcrumbs
- as needed ml Vegetable oil(for frying)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for serving Ajvar or cranberry sauce
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- 2
Dredge each slice of cheese first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- 3
Dip the floured cheese slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
- 4
Finally, coat the cheese slice generously with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- 5
Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a thicker crust, if desired.
- 6
Heat about 1-2 cm of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- 7
Carefully place the breaded cheese slices into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- 8
Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be softened but not completely melted out.
- 9
Remove the fried cheese from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 10
Serve immediately with ajvar or cranberry sauce on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using a firm cheese that doesn't melt too quickly is crucial.
- ✓Double-coating in egg and breadcrumbs creates a sturdier crust.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without the cheese oozing out.
🔄 Variations
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or a smoked cheese.
- Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.