Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsIstrosSaganaki Bites (v) Recipe

Saganaki Bites (v) Recipe

Inspired by Istros
Time1h
Serves4

cheese croquettes | tomato and cherry jam | herb infused oil

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Ingredients

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Cheese Croquettes

Tomato and Cherry Jam

Method

Cheese Croquettes

  1. 1

    Prepare the Cheese Mixture

    Grate the Kefalotyri cheese and place it in a mixing bowl. Add chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper, and mix until well combined.

  2. 2

    Form the Croquettes

    Shape the cheese mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 inch in diameter.

  3. 3

    Prepare for Breading

    Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

  4. 4

    Bread the Croquettes

    Dredge each cheese ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each croquette is well-covered.

  5. 5

    Fry the Croquettes

    Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning them until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

  6. 6

    Drain and Keep Warm

    Remove the croquettes and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep them warm while you prepare the jam and oil.

Tomato and Cherry Jam

  1. 7

    Cook the Jam

    In a saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, ripe tomatoes, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft and the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes.

  2. 8

    Add Balsamic and Basil

    Stir in balsamic vinegar and chopped basil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Herb Infused Oil

  1. 9

    Infuse the Oil

    In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, and smashed garlic cloves. Heat over low heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil.

  2. 10

    Strain and Set Aside

    Remove from heat and strain the oil into a glass container, discarding the solids. Let it cool to room temperature.

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