Fried Goat Cheese Recipe

Chill and slice

Place the goat cheese log on a small plate and wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm but still slightly yielding; this prevents spreading while frying. Unwrap and slice the chilled log into eight 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place slices on a parchment-lined tray and return to the refrigerator while preparing coatings.

Set up three shallow bowls or plates: bowl 1 — flour mixed with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper (and cornstarch if using). Bowl 2 — whisk together eggs and milk until smooth. Bowl 3 — breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan (if using), remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Working with one goat cheese round at a time, dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip back into the bowl. Press into the breadcrumbs to fully coat, then return to the chilled tray. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more. Keep coated rounds chilled for 10 minutes to set the coating.

Pour oil into a 10–12-inch skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch (or use a heavy-bottomed pot). Heat over medium heat until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a small piece of bread sizzles and turns golden in about 30–40 seconds. Maintain temperature around 325–350°F while frying.

Carefully add 2–3 breaded goat cheese rounds to the hot oil without crowding. Fry 1 to 1 1/2 minutes per side, turning once with a slotted spoon or spatula, until golden brown and crisp. If oil temperature drops, increase heat briefly; if browning too fast, lower heat. Remove to a paper towel–lined tray to drain. Repeat with remaining rounds.

Let the fried rounds rest 1–2 minutes to firm up but serve while still warm so the center is creamy. Do not overcook; prolonged frying will cause the cheese to melt through the crust.

Arrange fried goat cheese on a platter or atop mixed greens. Drizzle lightly with honey and/or a spoonful of fig jam; sprinkle with toasted nuts and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.