Smažený Sýr (Fried Cheese) with Tartar Sauce
Smažený sýr is a popular Czech dish consisting of a thick slice of cheese, typically Edam or Hermelín, breaded and deep-fried until golden and crispy. It's often served with fries and a generous dollop of tartar sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 slices Edam cheese(about 1.5 cm thick (or Hermelín))
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 large Eggs(beaten)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs(panko or regular)
- 3-4 cups Vegetable oil(for deep frying)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 cup Tartar sauce(store-bought or homemade)
- for serving Lemon wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the cheese slices dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
💡 Tip: Ensure cheese is well-chilled before frying. - 2
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs seasoned with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Using panko breadcrumbs will result in a crispier coating. - 3
Dredge each cheese slice first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip in beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, coat generously with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
💡 Tip: Double-breading (egg, breadcrumbs, egg, breadcrumbs) can create an even thicker crust. - 4
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
💡 Tip: If you don't have a thermometer, a breadcrumb dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately and turn golden in about 30 seconds. - 5
Carefully place the breaded cheese slices into the hot oil, one or two at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
💡 Tip: Maintain oil temperature; if it drops too low, the cheese will absorb too much oil. - 6
Remove the fried cheese with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Tip: Draining on a wire rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. - 7
Serve immediately with a generous portion of tartar sauce and lemon wedges. French fries are a traditional accompaniment.
💡 Tip: The cheese will be very hot and gooey inside.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a cheese with a good melting point, like Edam or Gouda. Hermelín (Czech camembert) is also popular.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- ✓Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of garlic powder to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of potato salad or a simple green salad.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour.