Cacio Fritto (Fried Pecorino) – Crispy Italian Cheese Delight
Cacio fritto is a delectable Italian appetizer that captures the essence of fried cheese. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, this dish is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. The rich flavor of Pecorino combined with a light, crispy batter creates an irresistible treat. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family before the main meal, or as a snack at any time of day.
Recipe Overview:
- Category: Antipasti (Appetizer)
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pecorino (aged sheep’s milk cheese) | 450g |
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 250g |
| Sparkling water | 200g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Fine salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Additional flour (for coating) | As needed |
| Sunflower oil (for frying) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This is an approximate value based on standard ingredients and servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pecorino: Begin by slicing the Pecorino cheese into 1 cm thick slices. The cheese should be firm, as this will help it maintain its shape while frying.
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Make the Batter: In a medium-sized bowl, crack the two eggs and add the salt. Whisk them together with a hand whisk until well combined. Gradually pour in the sparkling water and continue whisking until a smooth, fluid batter is formed. The batter should have a consistency that’s fluid but not runny—similar to a pancake batter.
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Prepare for Frying: Pour sunflower oil into a deep pan, ensuring there’s enough to submerge the cheese slices. Heat the oil to 190°C (375°F). To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the pan; if it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, it’s ready.
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Coat the Cheese: Lightly coat each slice of Pecorino with all-purpose flour on both sides. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip each floured slice into the prepared batter, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
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Fry the Cacio Fritto: Gently place 1 or 2 slices of the cheese into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 60 to 90 seconds, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The cheese should still be melting inside.
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Drain the Fried Cheese: Once fried, use tongs to remove the slices from the oil. Place them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Serve: Serve the cacio fritto hot, directly from the fryer for the best taste and texture. These crispy, cheesy bites are perfect as an appetizer or a side dish to complement your Italian meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Choice: While Pecorino is traditional, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Parmesan or even a mild mozzarella, but Pecorino will provide the sharpest and most authentic flavor.
- Add Herbs or Spices: For an added flavor twist, sprinkle some dried oregano, thyme, or chili flakes into the batter before dipping the cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your cacio fritto with a side of honey or fig jam for a sweet contrast to the savory cheese. A few fresh arugula leaves also add a peppery freshness to balance the richness.
Why You’ll Love Cacio Fritto:
Cacio fritto is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both simple and indulgent. The crispy exterior gives way to a melting, savory interior that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, a family gathering, or simply craving a cheese-centric snack, this dish is sure to impress. Its ease of preparation and the guaranteed “wow” factor make it a go-to recipe for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Enjoy Cacio Fritto – Fried Pecorino – your new favorite crispy Italian delight!
