Entree: Slovakia – Northern Culinary Region – Vyprážaný Syr (Breaded and deep-fried cheese served hot, typically with tartar sauce and potatoes)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 25 min

Cook 5 min

Additional 15 min

Total 45 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (450 g) Edam or young gouda cheese, cut into 8 slices (about 2 oz/56 g each)
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten (about 150 g)
- 2 cups (200 g) plain breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
- 1/2 tsp (3 g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
- 1 qt (4 cups/950 ml) vegetable oil for frying (or enough for 1–2 in. deep)
- 1.5 lb (700 g) potatoes for fries or boiled potatoes, cut as desired
- Salt for seasoning potatoes

For tartar sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp (30 g) finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1 tbsp (10 g) chopped capers (optional)
- 1 tbsp (6 g) chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the tartar sauce: in a small bowl combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, capers, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cover, and refrigerate to let flavors meld.
2. Pat the cheese slices dry with paper towels. Place flour, beaten eggs (seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper), and breadcrumbs each in separate shallow bowls. For a sturdier crust, you can double-coat the cheese.
3. Dredge each cheese slice first in flour, shaking off excess; then dip into beaten eggs; then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For a double coat, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps. Place breaded slices on a tray and freeze uncovered for 10–20 minutes to firm up (this helps prevent cheese leakage).
4. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). If frying straight potatoes, raise oil to 375°F (190°C) for frying fries; otherwise cook potatoes by preferred method and keep warm.
5. Fry the breaded cheese slices in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove with a slotted spatula and drain on paper towels.
6. Season hot fries or boiled potatoes with salt. Serve the Vyprážaný Syr immediately while the cheese is hot and melty, with tartar sauce and a simple salad or potatoes on the side.