Description
This delicious appetizer features crispy fried goat cheese rounds infused with fresh tarragon and finished with a sweet honey drizzle. The creamy goat cheese contrasts beautifully with the crunchy panko coating, making it a perfect savory-sweet starter or salad topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Goat Cheese and Coating
- 8 oz fresh goat cheese log
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried tarragon)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Frying and Serving
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp honey (for drizzling)
- Fresh tarragon leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Goat Cheese: Slice the goat cheese log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You should get about 8 slices from an 8 oz log. Place the slices on a plate and set aside.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs combined with chopped fresh tarragon, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Goat Cheese: Lightly dredge each goat cheese slice in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage. Press each piece into the panko mixture so both sides are evenly coated. Repeat for all slices.
- Fry the Goat Cheese: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, carefully add the breaded goat cheese slices. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to prevent the cheese from breaking.
- Drizzle with Honey and Garnish: Remove fried goat cheese slices from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh tarragon leaves if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as an appetizer, tasty snack, or a flavorful topping for salads.
Notes
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating without excessive oil absorption.
- Use fresh tarragon if possible; it provides a more vibrant flavor than dried.
- Handle the fried goat cheese gently as it is delicate and can break apart easily.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
