Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe

There’s just something about the irresistible combo of crispy fried cheese and sweet-tangy blueberry jam that makes my taste buds do a happy dance—let’s dive into this culinary symphony that hits all the right notes!

I love the contrast of flavors in my Fried Cheese with Blueberry Jam recipe. The combination of crispy, golden-brown halloumi and sweet, tangy blueberry jam creates a delightful balance.

I enjoy adding a touch of paprika and black pepper for a subtle kick, while fresh thyme and lemon juice add a layer of freshness.

Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe Ingredients

• Firm Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, offering a savory base.
• All-Purpose Flour: Adds a crispy, golden coating when fried.
• Black Pepper: Enhances flavor with a subtle spiciness.
• Paprika: Provides a smoky depth and a hint of warmth.
• Blueberry Jam: Sweet and tangy, complements the cheese.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, zesty contrast to the sweetness.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves: Optional herbal note, enhancing aroma and flavor.

Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 200g firm cheese (such as Halloumi or Queso Fresco), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup blueberry jam
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

How to Make this Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe

1. Begin by preparing the cheese. Slice the firm cheese into 1/2-inch thick pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to create a seasoned flour mixture.

3. Lightly coat each slice of cheese in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. This will help achieve a crispy texture when frying.

4. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberry jam with the lemon juice. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and warmed through. Set aside.

5. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying by testing with a small piece of cheese; it should sizzle upon contact.

6. Carefully place the flour-coated cheese slices into the hot oil in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

7. Fry each side of the cheese slices for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently.

8. Once fried, transfer the cheese slices onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

9. While still warm, place the fried cheese on a serving platter. Drizzle the warmed blueberry jam over the top.

10. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if using, for an aromatic touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of savory cheese and sweet jam.

Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Sharp knife
3. Shallow bowl
4. Small saucepan
5. Non-stick skillet
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cup
8. Tongs
9. Paper towels
10. Plate
11. Serving platter

FAQ

• Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute with any firm cheese that holds up well to frying, such as Paneer or Kefalotyri.
• Is there a gluten-free option for the flour? Absolutely, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch instead of regular flour.
• What if I don’t like blueberry jam? You can use any fruit jam of your choice—apricot or raspberry jam works great as well.
• Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme if fresh is not available.
• How do I prevent the cheese from sticking? Ensure the oil is hot before adding the cheese and avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Can I add more spices? Certainly, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite spices for added flavor.
• How should I serve this dish? Serve it as an appetizer or snack, accompanied by crackers or crusty bread.

Fried Cheese With Blueberry Jam Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Cheese: Instead of Halloumi or Queso Fresco, you could use Paneer or Grilled Cheese Curd.
• All-purpose flour: Cornstarch or rice flour can be used as a substitute for a lighter, gluten-free option.
• Black pepper: White pepper can be used for a milder flavor with a similar peppery note.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika will add a smoky flavor, or cayenne pepper can be used for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable oil: Olive oil or canola oil can be used as alternatives for frying.

Pro Tips

1. Freeze the Cheese Before slicing, place the cheese in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This makes it firmer and easier to slice uniformly without crumbling.

2. Enhanced Coating For an extra crispy crust, consider dipping the cheese slices in beaten egg after coating them with flour, and then coat them again with flour. This double-coating technique provides a thicker, crunchier texture.

3. Jam Variation To add complexity to the blueberry jam, try incorporating a pinch of salt and a dash of balsamic vinegar while heating it. This will enhance the sweetness with subtle savory notes.

4. Oil Temperature Test Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right frying temperature, approximately 350°F (175°C). This prevents the cheese from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.

5. Resting Period Let the fried cheese sit on the paper towels for an extra minute to ensure maximum oil absorption, making them less greasy and enhancing the flavor of the final dish.