If you happen to’re a cheese lover, I’ll introduce you to the final word, past optimum, pan-fried Greek cheese delicacy that may solely take you a couple of minutes to organize. It is known as Saganaki, the flaming cheese meze, or appetizer, that may grow to be a vacation favourite.
It sounds extra like Japanese, however Saganaki is a Greek-American specialty invented by the proprietor of the Parthenon Restaurant in Chicago’s Greektown within the late Sixties. I’ve come to like its skinny, crispy, golden crust on the surface and tender, gooey inside.
For this recipe, I’ll hold it quite simple and fast, beginning with the proper of cheese to make your Saganaki. You’ll be able to select from superb cheese, like Kasseri, bought in four-ounce packages at Market Basket, to the higher high quality cheeses like imported Graviera, Kefalograviera, Kefalotyri – or the best, Cypriot Halloumi or Mastello from the island of Chios.
Greek specialty markets in Windfall, Yoleni’s, and Athena Worldwide Meals in Brockton can help you if you would like the higher-quality cheeses. If you cannot discover the Greek cheese, the very best substitutes are Asiago, Pecorino Romano, Colby or Monterey Jack.
To arrange your Saganaki, you solely have to comply with three very straightforward steps. First, take a 4×4 sq. slice of cheese about two-thirds of an inch thick, and canopy the floor of the cheese with ice-water in a bowl for a minute.
Then, dredge the cheese in flour, shaking off any extra, and pan fry in ideally a forged iron skillet, or a sauté pan, with a tablespoon of olive oil, over medium-high warmth.
In about two minutes, when the cheese begins to ooze and it will get golden brown, flip it over so it may grow to be golden on either side. Squeeze a lemon wedge on high and serve it straight away, as it should grow to be laborious when it will get chilly.
Our daughters Andrea and Athena prefer to flambé Saganaki on the Greek Pageant utilizing only a little bit of Greek brandy, Ouzo, or any high-proof spirit, and ignite it with a lighter. It seems so spectacular when served with an exclaim of “Opa!” to have a good time the delicious second.
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