If you are on the hunt for a truly delightful appetizer that combines creamy, crispy, and sweet in every bite, the Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together the tangy richness of goat cheese, the subtle anise-like aroma of fresh tarragon, and the luscious drizzle of honey that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself, this fried cheese treat is irresistibly crunchy on the outside and decadently smooth inside, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you – each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this dish shine. From the creamy goat cheese to the flaky panko crust, every component is essential for that golden, crispy magic.
- 8 oz goat cheese (log-style): The star of the dish, providing a tangy and creamy center that melts beautifully inside.
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (finely chopped): Adds a fresh, slightly licorice flavor that brightens the richness of the cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle kick of spice that enhances the herbaceous notes.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and creates a light crust for frying.
- 1 large egg (beaten): The binding agent to hold the panko breadcrumbs in place.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that signature crisp, flaky crunch you’ll fall in love with.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): The cooking medium to achieve a golden-brown crust without overpowering flavors.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Drizzled over warm fried cheese for a sweet, sticky finish.
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish): Adds a delicate crunch and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Rounds
Begin by slicing your goat cheese log into half-inch thick rounds, taking care to handle them gently so they hold their shape. If the edges look uneven, lightly reshape into neat discs. This ensures even frying and a great presentation.
Step 2: Add Tarragon and Seasoning
In a small bowl, stir together the finely chopped fresh tarragon and black pepper. Press this fragrant herb mixture gently onto the surface of each goat cheese round, infusing them with an aromatic lift that complements the cheese perfectly.
Step 3: Bread the Cheese
Set up a dredging station with separate bowls for flour, the beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs. First, lightly coat each cheese round in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumbs. This triple-layer coating ensures a crispy shell that locks in the creamy center.
Step 4: Chill to Firm Up
Place the breaded cheese pieces on a plate and refrigerate them for at least 20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial – it helps the coating adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about a quarter inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry each cheese disc carefully for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden crust forms. Remove and drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil.
Step 6: Finish with Honey and Salt
While still warm, drizzle the fried goat cheese with honey and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if you like. The contrast of sweet, salty, and crispy textures is pure bliss on the palate.
How to Serve Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a few extra tarragon leaves or delicate microgreens add a splash of fresh color and an herbal note that lifts the dish even further. A light dusting of cracked black pepper can also add visual appeal and extra zing.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a peppery arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness of the cheese. You could also serve it alongside toasted crostini or thinly sliced baguette for a satisfying crunch and to turn it into a more substantial snack or light meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the fried goat cheese rounds stacked in a small tower with honey drizzled artistically around the plate. Or offer individual bite-sized servings on skewers or elegant spoons with a tiny dollop of honey on the side for dipping. This recipe lends itself beautifully to party platters and casual gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which won’t last long!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The coating may lose some crispness but the flavors remain delicious.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as freezing fried goat cheese can affect texture. However, you can prep the breaded cheese rounds ahead of time and freeze them raw on a lined tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and fry straight from frozen when ready.
Reheating
To revive the crunchy exterior, reheat leftover fried goat cheese gently in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave as it can make the coating soggy and the cheese too melty. A quick re-fry or oven crisp at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
Fresh tarragon is definitely preferred for its vibrant flavor in this Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe, but if you must, a small pinch of dried tarragon can substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor won’t be as pronounced or fresh.
What type of goat cheese works best?
Choose a soft, log-style goat cheese with a creamy texture that’s easy to slice. Avoid crumbly or aged varieties, since they won’t melt smoothly or hold their shape when fried.
Is panko breadcrumb necessary?
Using panko breadcrumbs creates that irresistible light, crispy crust that’s key to this dish. Regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch but expect a denser texture.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies on the rich flavor and texture of goat cheese, so it’s tricky to replicate with vegan alternatives. However, some plant-based cheeses with a similar texture might work, but frying carefully as melting points differ.
How do I prevent the cheese from melting too much and leaking?
Chilling the breaded cheese rounds before frying is the secret! This step firms them up and helps the coating hold strong while frying, resulting in that perfect crispy outside and soft, contained inside.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe has a special place in my heart—it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles and makes gatherings memorable. The harmony of creamy, crisp, sweet, and herbal flavors is downright addictive. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every delicious bite just as much as I do!
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Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon and Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes plus 20 minutes chilling
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, golden fried goat cheese rounds infused with fresh tarragon and drizzled with honey for a sweet and savory appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients
Cheese and Herb Mixture
- 8 oz goat cheese (log-style)
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (finely chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1/4 inch in skillet)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese rounds: Slice the goat cheese into 1/2-inch thick rounds, and gently reshape them into discs if they lose their form. This will ensure even coating and frying.
- Mix herbs and pepper: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped fresh tarragon and black pepper. Press this herb mixture gently onto the surface of each goat cheese round so the flavors adhere well.
- Bread the cheese: Dredge each herbed goat cheese round first in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip each piece into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, cover each round with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the breadcrumbs stick firmly.
- Chill the coated rounds: Place the coated goat cheese rounds on a plate and refrigerate them for at least 20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial to help the cheese firm up and prevent excessive melting during frying.
- Heat oil for frying: In a skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it is hot but not smoking. Properly heated oil will ensure the breadcrumb crust crisps up nicely.
- Fry the cheese rounds: Carefully place the chilled, breaded goat cheese discs into the hot oil. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Use tongs or a slotted spatula to turn them gently.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried cheese rounds and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil, ensuring they remain crispy.
- Serve immediately: While still warm, drizzle the fried goat cheese with honey and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the goat cheese rounds are well chilled before frying to prevent them from melting too quickly.
- These crispy cheese bites pair beautifully with a fresh arugula salad or served atop toasted crostini.
