Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey

If you’re looking for the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and just a touch of sweet, then you’ve found it in this Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey. Picture this: warm, crispy crusted goat cheese, fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with honey and finished with the fresh, herby notes of tarragon. It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth, with every bite delivering a crunchy exterior, creamy inside, and just the right amount of sweetness to keep you coming back for more. It’s the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light meal on a cozy evening. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this, you’ll want it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey

Here’s why this dish is going to be your new favorite indulgence:

Perfect Combination of Flavors

The tangy richness of the goat cheese pairs beautifully with the earthy aniseed flavor of tarragon, and when drizzled with honey, it becomes a showstopper. It’s a unique and sophisticated bite that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Quick and Easy

This appetizer may look fancy, but it comes together quickly. You won’t need any complicated ingredients or techniques, just a few simple steps to create something extraordinary.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. It’s always a hit when you serve something that’s both delicious and unexpected. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly!

Versatile

Serve it as an appetizer with a side of crackers or toast, or pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. You can even enjoy it as a snack when you’re craving something savory and satisfying.

Ingredients

Ready to whip up this irresistible dish? Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Fried Goat Cheese:

• Goat cheese: The creamy base of this dish, perfect for frying. You can use logs of goat cheese, or pre-portioned rounds for convenience.
• Flour: For dredging the goat cheese before frying, which gives it that golden, crispy crust.
• Egg: To help the flour stick to the cheese.
• Breadcrumbs: These will form the crunchy outer layer. Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crispiness.
• Salt and pepper: To season the breadcrumbs and the flour for a bit of flavor.

For the Tarragon-Honey Drizzle:

• Fresh tarragon: Adds a lovely, fragrant herbaceousness that balances out the richness of the goat cheese.
• Honey: For that perfect touch of sweetness to contrast with the savory cheese and herbs.
• Olive oil: A little drizzle in the honey mixture helps it come together smoothly.

Instructions

Let’s get frying and drizzling!

Prepare the Goat Cheese

Begin by slicing the goat cheese into rounds, about 1/2-inch thick. You can also use a log of goat cheese and cut it into discs. Once sliced, set the cheese aside.

Dredge the Cheese

Next, set up a dredging station. In one shallow bowl, add the flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the egg. And in a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.

One by one, dip each slice of goat cheese into the flour, coating it evenly. Then dip it into the egg, followed by the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the cheese is well-coated. Place the coated goat cheese slices on a plate.

Fry the Cheese

Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated goat cheese slices to the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Tarragon-Honey Drizzle

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, and freshly chopped tarragon until well combined. Taste and adjust the honey to your liking, adding more for extra sweetness if desired.

Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange the fried goat cheese slices on a serving plate and drizzle the tarragon-honey mixture over the top. You can garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh tarragon for a beautiful presentation. Serve warm, and get ready to savor every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4-6 servings
Calories per serving: 180 calories (approx.)

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 7g
• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 1% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes

How to Serve Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey

This Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is perfect for many occasions. Here are some ideas for serving:

• As an appetizer: Serve it with fresh baguette slices, crackers, or a small salad for a light and impressive start to your meal.
• On a cheese board: This dish is a fabulous addition to a cheese platter, bringing a crispy, savory element to balance out the other cheeses and fruits.
• With salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad, or arugula, for a light, flavorful meal that still feels indulgent.
• As a snack: Enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of extra honey—because who says you can’t have a little sweetness in your savory snacks?

Additional Tips

• Try other herbs: If you don’t have tarragon, you can substitute with basil, rosemary, or thyme for a different flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey drizzle for a little kick if you like some heat with your sweetness.
• Use a non-stick pan: This can help ensure your cheese doesn’t stick to the pan, giving you that perfect crispy golden crust.
• Go for soft goat cheese: If you prefer a creamier texture, use a soft goat cheese for an even meltier interior. Just be sure to handle it gently when frying.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different cheese?
A1: Yes! You can use other cheeses like brie, feta, or even halloumi. However, goat cheese gives the dish its unique tang and creaminess, so try to stick with that for the best results.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: While the fried goat cheese is best served fresh and warm, you can prepare the cheese and dredge it the night before. Just store it in the fridge and fry it right before serving.

Q3: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
A3: You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers, and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for dredging.

Q4: Can I bake the goat cheese instead of frying it?
A4: Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the coated goat cheese on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Q5: Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
A5: Yes, you can! Just use about one-third of the amount if using dried tarragon (about 1 teaspoon), as it’s more concentrated than fresh.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to re-crisp the coating.

Q7: Can I add nuts to this dish?
A7: Absolutely! You can sprinkle crushed pistachios or walnuts on top for extra texture and flavor.

Q8: How can I make this dish vegan?
A8: You can use a plant-based cheese (like cashew cheese) and substitute the egg with a flax egg for dredging. Vegan honey is also available if you want to keep it plant-based.

Q9: How do I know when the cheese is done frying?
A9: The cheese should be golden brown and crispy on all sides. You can also check by gently pressing on the cheese to ensure it’s heated through and crispy on the outside.

Q10: Can I make this dish spicy?
A10: Yes! Add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey drizzle or mix some cayenne pepper into the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is one of those recipes that’s both simple and sophisticated. It’s an appetizer that feels indulgent but is totally approachable to make. The crispy cheese paired with the sweet honey and fresh tarragon is a combination you’ll find yourself craving. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress! Happy cooking!

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