Saganaki (Flaming Greek Cheese)
Description
Saganaki is a Greek appetizer made with fried kasseri cheese. Chef John's recipe includes flambéing the cheese for a show-stopping presentation!
Ingredients
•
1 (4 ounce) package kasseri cheese
•
1 tablespoon water, or as needed
•
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, or as needed
•
1 tablespoon olive oil
•
2 tablespoons brandy, at room temperature
•
1/2 lemon, or to taste
•
1 tablespoon freshly chopped Italian parsley
Directions
1
Brush each side of kasseri cheese with water; dredge both sides in flour, making sure the surface is completely covered.
2
Preheat a well-seasoned cast iron skillet on medium-high heat until smoking; pour in olive oil. Carefully place floured cheese in hot oil and cook until cheese begins to ooze and a golden-brown crust forms, about 2 minutes. Quickly flip cheese over with a spatula. Fry until the bottom is golden brown, about 30 seconds more.
3
Remove from the heat and place skillet onto a napkin-lined plate. Pour brandy into the skillet over the cheese. Light the brandy using a fireplace lighter. Squeeze some lemon juice on top to extinguish the last few flames and garnish with parsley.