Best 4 Saganaki Greek Flaming Cheese Recipes
Saganaki, a delectable Greek dish, is a true culinary delight that captivates taste buds with its simplicity and bold flavors. This dish, often served as an appetizer or main course, features halloumi or kefalotyri cheese, seared to perfection in a sizzling hot pan until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and yielding on the inside. The cheese is typically served flaming, doused in brandy or ouzo and ignited, creating a dramatic spectacle at the table. The combination of the slightly salty, slightly tangy cheese, the smoky undertones from the searing process, and the aromatic brandy or ouzo creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. This article delves into the art of preparing this classic Greek dish, offering a collection of recipes that cater to various dietary preferences and culinary skills. From traditional saganaki recipes using halloumi or kefalotyri cheese to vegan and gluten-free variations, this comprehensive guide ensures that everyone can savor the delights of this iconic dish.
Let's cook with our recipes!
FLAMING GREEK CHEESE (SAGANAKI)
This flaming cheese ritual was started by restaurateurs in Chicago, who encouraged customers to yell, 'Opa!' as the plate was being ignited. You can recreate the tradition at home in minutes, whether you'd like to spark up a little romance with an old flame on date night or just try a fast and fun cheese dish on a chilly weeknight. Serve with sliced fresh or grilled bread.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Dips and Spreads Recipes Cheese Dips and Spreads Recipes
Time 13m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Brush each side of the kasseri cheese with water. Dredge both sides in flour, making sure the surface is completely covered.
- Preheat a well seasoned cast iron skillet on medium-high heat until smoking. Pour in olive oil. Carefully place the floured cheese in the hot oil. Cook until cheese begins to ooze and a golden brown crust forms, about 2 minutes. Quickly flip cheese over with a spatula. Fry until bottom is golden brown, about 30 seconds more.
- Remove skillet from heat and transfer onto a napkin-lined plate. Pour brandy over the cheese. Light the brandy using a fireplace lighter. Now you can exclaim "Opa!" and marvel at the fire. Squeeze some lemon juice on top to extinguish the last few flames and garnish with parsley.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 391.2 calories, Carbohydrate 15 g, Cholesterol 61.2 mg, Fat 25.4 g, Fiber 1.8 g, Protein 16.3 g, SaturatedFat 11.2 g, Sodium 543.5 mg, Sugar 0.1 g
SAGANAKI (GREEK FLAMING CHEESE)
Absolute delicious appetizer and simple to make at home. Greek cheese is Kasseri, but you can substitute with a chunk of provolone...perfect
Provided by Monika Rosales
Categories Cheese Appetizers
Time 15m
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- 1. Dip the block of cheese in water to moisten.
- 2. lightly cover all side with the flour.
- 3. In a sauté pan drizzle with olive oil, and fry about 2-3 mins on each side on medium heat...till brown and crusty.
- 4. Turn off heat..pull pan aside, pour the brandy around the cheese and carefully set on fire with a match or a long lighter...simply turn off with the squeeze of the lemon. Enjoy your flaming Greek cheese! OPA
SAGANAKI (FLAMING GREEK CHEESE) OOMPA! DANGEROUS AND DELICIOUS!
I love to make this appetizer and when I find a good Greek cheese, you can bet it is on my menu! This is a very impressive appetizer. If you can not find a good Greek cheese as listed, you can also use Romano, but the Greek cheeses are great if available. You can get about a 1/2 lb chunk, or however big you need it to serve per...
Provided by Deb Crane
Categories Other Snacks
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- 1. Heat thin layer of olive oil in frying pan (until tiny bubbles begin to rise)
- 2. Beat egg and milk together. Dip cheese in egg mixture and then into flour.
- 3. Fry until golden brown (appox. 3-5 minutes per side)
- 4. Place on a metal plate. Bring over to your guests who will be wowed. :) Pour the brandy over the cheese and light it as you say Oompa! (Careful, it flames up high!) To put out flame, squeeze lemon over the cheese after the flames settle a bit. Bon Appetit!
FLAMING CHEESE (GREEK SAGANAKI)
Greek restaurants famous Flaming Cheese. The hard Greek cheese can be found in Greek or Middle Eastern grocery stores and gourmet food shops.
Provided by Deb Mattson
Categories Greek
Time 32m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1 Season both sides of cheese with salt and pepper. Place cheese in shallow dish and cover with brandy. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- 2 Season flour with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- 3 Remove cheese from dish, reserve 1/4 c brandy. Dredge cheese in seasoned flour coating completely.
- 4 In a large saute pan over medium heat, melt butter.
- 5 Pan fry cheese 2 minutes per side. Add reserved brandy and carefully flame the brandy, shaking pan back and forth several times.
- 6 Add lemon juice.
- 7 Remove cheese from pan and serve with pita bread and olives.
Tips:
- Use the Right Cheese: The best cheese for saganaki is a hard, salty cheese that will hold its shape when fried. Some popular choices include kefalotyri, halloumi, and kasseri.
- Slice the Cheese Properly: Cut the cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices. If the cheese is too thick, it will not cook evenly. If it is too thin, it will melt too quickly.
- Coat the Cheese in Flour: Dredging the cheese in flour helps to create a crispy crust. Make sure to coat the cheese evenly.
- Fry the Cheese in Hot Oil: Use a large skillet or frying pan with enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it is shimmering.
- Flip the Cheese Only Once: When the bottom of the cheese is golden brown, carefully flip it over. Do not flip the cheese more than once, or it will fall apart.
- Serve the Cheese Immediately: Saganaki is best served immediately after it is cooked. You can garnish it with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion:
Saganaki is a delicious and versatile Greek dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Whether you like your saganaki simple or topped with your favorite ingredients, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give saganaki a try!
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