Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because of the perfect balance between crispy, golden cheese and the rich, savory tomato sauce that’s akin to a Mediterranean embrace. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, yet feels like a culinary escape to a sun-soaked patio with every bite!

The combination of crispy cheese and the robust taste of Spanish tomato sauce is hard to resist. You use a firm cheese—like manchego—instead of one that’s melty, and you coat it in all-purpose flour before frying it in good olive oil.

That gives you the texture contrast you want with a sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and a touch of sugar.

Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe Ingredients

• Firm Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, adds savory flavor.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat, enhances flavor, and helps fry perfectly.
• Ripe Tomatoes: Brings natural sweetness, vitamin C, and fiber.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth, with antioxidant properties.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky depth, enhancing the sauce’s complexity.

Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 200g of firm cheese such as manchego or halloumi
• 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• 400g of ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp of sugar
• 1 tsp of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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How to Make this Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe

1. Slice firm cheeses like manchego or halloumi into pieces about 1 cm thick.

2. Each slice of cheese should be coated lightly with flour made from all-purpose wheat, such that all parts of the cheese are covered evenly.

3. In a frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

4. Place the sliced cheese, now floured, into the pan and fry them until they are golden, crispy, and brown on both sides. This will take about 2–3 minutes per side. When they are done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

5. In the same frying pan, add a little more oil if necessary, and then sauté the minced onion until it is translucent.

6. Mince garlic and add to the skillet with the onion. Cook for another minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.

7. Stir together the finely chopped tomatoes, sugar, and smoked paprika in the skillet.

8. Taste the sauce, and add salt and pepper as needed. Let the sauce simmer on the lowest possible heat for about 10–15 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken and for the tomatoes to break down. Slow simmering is the key.

9. When the sauce is done, serve it beside or atop the fried cheese.

10. For the best flavor, serve immediately and top with fresh basil or parsley.

Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Sharp knife
3. Shallow dish or plate (for flour)
4. Frying pan
5. Spatula
6. Measuring spoons
7. Mixing spoon
8. Small bowl (for garlic and onion)
9. Serving plate

FAQ

• Q: Can I use any type of cheese for this recipe?
  A: It’s best to use a firm cheese like manchego or halloumi for optimal frying results.
• Q: What can I substitute for smoked paprika?
  A: If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder for a slightly different flavor.
• Q: Can the tomato sauce be made in advance?
  A: Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Q: How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan?
  A: Make sure to heat the olive oil well before adding the cheese and use a non-stick pan if possible.
• Q: Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
  A: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying.
• Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
  A: Fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute if necessary.
• Q: What can I use instead of olive oil?
  A: You can use vegetable oil or any other neutral oil suitable for frying.

Fried Cheese With Spanish Tomato Sauce Queso Frito Con Tomate Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Cheese that is firm: queso panela or feta cheese can be used as substitutes.
Replace olive oil with vegetable oil or sunflower oil.
Substitute with canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree.
Garlic: substitute with garlic powder (1/4 tsp per clove) or shallots.
Paprika, smoked: substitute with regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Pro Tips

1. Cheese Selection and Preparation Before slicing, place the cheese in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it firmer and easier to slice into uniform, thick pieces, ensuring even frying.

2. Flour Coating Add a bit of cornstarch to the flour mix for an extra crispy coating. A 1:1 ratio of flour to cornstarch will create a nice, light crust on the cheese.

3. Oil Temperature Make sure the oil reaches the right temperature before adding the cheese slices. If the oil is too cool, the cheese will absorb more oil and become greasy. A small piece of bread crumb should sizzle when dropped into the oil to indicate it’s ready.

4. Enhancing the Sauce To deepen the flavor of the tomato sauce, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. This can enhance the overall richness and complexity of the dish.

5. Serving Suggestion To add a fresh touch, serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or toasted pita to help scoop up the cheese and sauce. This makes for an excellent appetizer or a delightful side dish.