Fried Feta

Imagine the sizzle of golden-brown feta slices, their crispy exteriors releasing a warm, savory aroma that fills your kitchen.

This Mediterranean delight is incredibly easy to make, transforming simple ingredients into a cozy, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

As the feta fries, it becomes a crispy yet creamy delight, perfect for savoring with a squeeze of lemon.

Let’s bring this delicious dish to life!

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Skillet
• 1 Tongs
• 1 Plate
• 1 Paper towel

Ingredients

• 200 grams Feta Cheese, block
• 100 grams All-purpose Flour
• 2 Large Eggs, beaten
• 150 grams Breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 Lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Fried Feta, you can follow this timeline:

1. Reading Time: 5 minutes
   • Spend a few minutes reading through the recipe to familiarize yourself with the ingredients and steps.
2. Prep Time: 10 minutes
   • 0:00-2:00 minutes: Gather and measure all ingredients and equipment needed (feta cheese, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon, dried oregano, skillet, tongs, plate, paper towel).
   • 2:00-5:00 minutes: Cut the feta cheese block into 1-inch thick slices.
   • 5:00-7:00 minutes: Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano.
   • 7:00-10:00 minutes: Dredge each feta slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs.
3. Cook Time: 5 minutes
   • 10:00-11:00 minutes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • 11:00-16:00 minutes: Fry the breaded feta slices in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Resting Time: 5 minutes
   • 16:00-17:00 minutes: Remove the fried feta from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.
   • 17:00-21:00 minutes: Let the fried feta rest for 5 minutes.
5. Serving: Immediately after resting time
   • Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.

Recipe Instructions

Cut the feta cheese block into 1-inch thick slices.

Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano.

Dredge each feta slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Fry the breaded feta slices in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove the fried feta from the skillet and place on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Let the fried feta rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Tips

• Pita Bread: Serve alongside warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean experience.
• Greek Salad: Pair with a fresh Greek salad to complement the flavors and add some invigorating crunch.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Offer a side of tzatziki for dipping, adding a creamy and tangy element to the dish.
• Olives: Accompany with a selection of olives for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a mix of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful side.

Storage

Store leftover fried feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze fried feta, allow it to cool completely.

Then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.

Place the wrapped pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat fried feta, use a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Final Thoughts

Fried feta is a delightful appetizer that brings a Mediterranean twist to any meal.

The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and creamy feta cheese creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

It’s important to confirm the oil is hot enough to achieve that desirable golden brown crust.

Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain an even frying temperature.

For an enhanced presentation, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley over the fried feta before serving.

Serve it warm with lemon wedges on the side for a revitalizing citrus kick.

With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is a quick and easy way to impress your guests.

Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfying crunch of this Mediterranean classic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese Instead of Feta?

You can definitely swap feta for another cheese, like halloumi or paneer. Choose one with a firm texture that won’t melt too quickly. Expect a deliciously crispy exterior while maintaining a creamy, flavorful interior. Enjoy experimenting!

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely, you can transform this into a gluten-free delight. Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The crunch remains satisfying, and the flavors meld beautifully, creating an irresistible, crispy, golden crust.

What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?

You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, which offers a mild, buttery flavor and high smoke point. This oil complements the feta’s creaminess perfectly, ensuring your dish remains crispy and aromatic. Enjoy the luscious, golden result!

How Do I Prevent the Feta From Melting While Frying?

To prevent melting, guarantee you’re using firm feta. Chill the cheese before coating. Maintain medium heat to achieve a golden crust quickly, minimizing melting. The sizzling oil should kiss the surface, not engulf it.

Can This Dish Be Made in an Air Fryer?

Yes, you can use an air fryer. Coat the cheese as usual, then arrange in the basket. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. The result is golden, crispy perfection with a melty, tangy center.