Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Paglierina Apassitta cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cut the Paglierina Apassitta cheese into 1/2 inch thick slices.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each cheese slice in flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip the cheese slice into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated.
5. Coat the cheese slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the mixture onto the cheese to ensure it sticks.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
7. Fry the cheese slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
8. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the fried cheese slices from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Paglierina Apassitta cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese such as Fontina or Gouda.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the cheese slices cook evenly and become crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer or pot with too many cheese slices at once as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cheese.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the fried cheese slices from the oil to prevent them from breaking apart.
Storage instructions:
Fried Paglierina Apassitta is best served immediately while still hot and crispy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cheese slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the cheese slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Fried Paglierina Apassitta on a platter with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. Garnish with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for added flavor and presentation.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, honey, balsamic glaze.
Pairings:
Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested side dishes:
Green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese slices are breaking apart during frying, try coating them in a thicker layer of flour and breadcrumbs to help hold them together.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the cheese slices from becoming greasy and undercooked. Use caution when handling hot oil to prevent burns.
Food history:
Paglierina Apassitta is a semi-soft cheese from the Piedmont region of Italy. It is known for its mild, nutty flavor and creamy texture. Fried cheese is a popular snack and appetizer in many cultures, including Italy.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, nutty, crispy, savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Fried Paglierina Apassitta as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering. It can also be served as a main course with a side salad or vegetables.
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Region: Italian