Back to RecipesGreek Saganaki (Fried Cheese)
Greece's most theatrical appetizer — a slab of firm cheese (Kefalotyri or Graviera) pan-fried in olive oil until golden and crispy outside, molten inside, then flambéed with brandy and finished with lemon. The tableside 'Opa!' is optional but encouraged.
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4
Cuisine
Greek
Rating
No reviews yet
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
10 min
Ingredients
- 300g Kefalotyri, Graviera, or Halloumi cheese, cut into 1cm slices
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brandy or ouzo
- Lemon juice
- Pita bread to serve
Instructions
- 1
Pat cheese dry. Dredge lightly in flour.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a small cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
- 3
Fry cheese 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- 4
Pour brandy over the cheese. Carefully ignite with a long lighter.
- 5
Let flames die down naturally.
- 6
Squeeze lemon juice over. Serve immediately with pita bread.
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🛒 Recommended Equipment
Dutch Oven (5.5 qt)
Versatile for braises, soups, and one-pot meals
Digital Kitchen Scale
Precision baking and portion control
Silicone Spatula Set
Heat-resistant, flexible, easy to clean
Chef's Knife (8-inch)
The most important tool in any kitchen
Cutting Board (Large Wood)
Sturdy, gentle on knife edges
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