Photo from pinterest.com

Smažený Sýr, or fried cheese, is a beloved Czech comfort food often enjoyed in pubs and street stalls. This simple yet indulgent dish features thick slices of cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to golden perfection. Served with tartar sauce or a side of fries, it's a perfect snack or meal for cheese lovers.

Ingredients

Cheese:

1 lb (450 g) Edam, Gouda, or Swiss cheese (thick slices)

Coating:

1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups (180 g) breadcrumbs

1/2 tsp (3 g) salt

1/2 tsp (3 g) black pepper

For Frying:

1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese: Cut the cheese into 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick slices. If desired, use blocks of cheese to get evenly thick pieces.

Bread the Cheese: Set up a breading station with three bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Dredge each slice of cheese in the flour, dip it in the egg mixture, and then coat it in breadcrumbs. For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Fry the Cheese: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded cheese slices in batches, cooking each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese will melt quickly. Transfer the fried cheese to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve: Serve the Smažený Sýr hot, with tartar sauce or ketchup on the side. It pairs perfectly with French fries or a fresh salad.

Serving

Smažený Sýr is best enjoyed straight out of the pan, while the cheese is still gooey inside and crispy outside. Traditionally served with tartar sauce, it’s an ideal pub snack or a satisfying meal when paired with fries or boiled potatoes.

Smažený Sýr is a Czech classic that offers a satisfying combination of crispy breading and melty cheese. Whether you’re making it as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal, this simple recipe will satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings.