Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey

Introduction

Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is a culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity with elegance. Picture creamy goat cheese rounds, perfectly coated and fried to golden-brown perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a luxuriously smooth center. The addition of fresh tarragon brings an aromatic, slightly anise-like flavor that complements the richness of the cheese beautifully. Drizzle the warm rounds with honey, and you’ve got a sweet-savory symphony that’s bound to steal the show.

This dish holds a special place in my heart for its versatility and charm. The first time I made it, I served it as a centerpiece appetizer at a dinner party, and it was the talk of the evening. Guests couldn’t get enough of the delightful combination of textures and flavors. What makes it even better is how quickly it comes together—you can prepare it in minutes, yet it feels like a gourmet indulgence.

Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey isn’t just an appetizer; it’s an experience. Pair it with a crisp salad for a light lunch, or serve it alongside crusty bread and a selection of cured meats for an elevated charcuterie platter. The balance of creamy, crispy, herby, and sweet makes it an unforgettable dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and asking for the recipe).

Perfect for:

• Appetizers at dinner parties
• Wine pairing events
• Light bites or snacks
• Special occasions
• A touch of elegance for your meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is sure to become one of your favorites:

• Crispy and Creamy: The contrast between the crispy golden crust and the creamy, soft center of the goat cheese makes every bite satisfying.
• Herb and Sweet Balance: Tarragon’s fresh, aromatic flavor complements the richness of the goat cheese, while honey adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated flavor profile, this dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for any skill level in the kitchen.
• Versatile: Serve it on its own, as part of a cheese board, or as an elegant addition to a salad for a full meal.
• Quick and Simple: With just a few key ingredients, this appetizer can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute guests or impromptu gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey:

• 8 oz goat cheese (logs or rounds)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh tarragon sprigs for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Goat Cheese: The star of the dish, goat cheese provides a smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with honey and tarragon.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs give the cheese a light, crispy coating that fries up golden and crunchy.
• Tarragon: This herb has a unique flavor with a mix of aniseed and lemon notes, which perfectly complement the goat cheese’s richness.
• Honey: The sweetness of honey creates a beautiful contrast with the savory fried goat cheese, making each bite a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey:

Prepare the Cheese:

1. Slice the Goat Cheese: Cut the goat cheese into 1-inch thick slices. If you’re using a goat cheese log, it may help to freeze the cheese for 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
2. Season the Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Set up the Dipping Stations:

3. Prepare the Eggs: In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs with a fork until well combined.
4. Prepare the Panko: In another shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs and mix them with the chopped tarragon. This will infuse the breadcrumbs with the herb’s fragrance.

Coat the Cheese:

5. Dredge the Cheese: Dip each slice of goat cheese first into the seasoned flour, coating it completely. Then dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the cheese slice in the panko-tarragon mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.

Fry the Cheese:

6. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.
7. Fry the Cheese: Carefully place the breaded goat cheese slices into the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Be gentle when flipping the cheese to avoid breaking the crust.

Finish and Serve:

8. Drain the Cheese: Once the cheese is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
9. Drizzle with Honey: While the cheese is still warm, drizzle it with honey, allowing it to melt slightly into the crispy crust.
10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh tarragon sprigs for a touch of color and additional herby flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

How to Serve

Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey can be served in a variety of ways:

• On a Salad: Add the fried goat cheese to a mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, and candied nuts for a beautiful appetizer or side dish.
• As Part of a Cheese Board: Arrange the fried cheese with other cheeses, fruits, and crackers for a sophisticated cheese board.
• With Crostini or Toast: Serve the fried goat cheese on toasted baguette slices for a warm, savory bite.
• With Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a balanced and refreshing pairing.
• As an Appetizer: Serve as a starter at dinner parties, or with a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is perfect every time:

• Chill the Cheese: If you find the goat cheese soft and hard to work with, chill it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before breading. This will help it hold its shape during frying.
• Use Fresh Tarragon: Fresh tarragon gives a more vibrant and fragrant flavor than dried, so be sure to use fresh if possible.
• Test the Oil Temperature: To ensure the cheese fries perfectly, test the oil temperature by dropping in a small breadcrumb. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the cheese in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures an even golden-brown crust without lowering the oil temperature.
• Honey Variations: Try experimenting with flavored honey, such as lavender or rosemary honey, for a unique twist.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey:

• Fried Goat Cheese with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the cheese for a tangy and sweet contrast.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the breadcrumbs for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Spicy Fried Goat Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a hint of heat.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Chive and Dill: Swap the tarragon for fresh chives and dill for a more herby option.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Fig Jam: Serve the cheese with a dollop of fig jam for a sweet and savory combination.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Pistachios: Mix chopped pistachios into the breadcrumbs for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Smoked Paprika: Add smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs for a slightly smoky flavor.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Truffle Oil: Drizzle truffle oil over the fried cheese for an extra touch of luxury.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Caramelized Onions: Top the cheese with caramelized onions for added sweetness and richness.
• Fried Goat Cheese with Cranberry Sauce: Pair with cranberry sauce for a festive and tangy twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Fried goat cheese can be frozen before frying. Once breaded, arrange the slices on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 hours. After freezing, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Fried goat cheese is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you need to store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey easier:

• Shallow Dishes: Use shallow dishes for the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures to make breading the cheese easier.
• Large Skillet: A wide, deep skillet is ideal for frying the cheese in batches.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Tongs or a slotted spoon will help you handle the cheese slices without breaking the crust.
• Paper Towels: Paper towels are essential for draining excess oil after frying.
• Honey Drizzler: A honey drizzler or small spoon helps add the perfect amount of honey to each serving.
• Small Bowl: Use a small bowl for mixing any additional seasonings or for honey if you plan to warm it slightly before drizzling.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack placed over a sheet pan will keep the fried cheese crispy by preventing it from sitting on a flat surface.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will ensure easy slicing of the goat cheese before frying.
• Freezer-Safe Bags: For storing breaded cheese in the freezer, freezer-safe bags are essential for keeping it fresh.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with brie or camembert for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can prepare and bread the cheese ahead of time, then freeze it for later frying.
3. Can I bake the cheese instead of frying it?
   Yes, bake the cheese at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, for a lighter version.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from falling apart during frying?
   Ensure the cheese is well-coated in breadcrumbs and chilled before frying to prevent it from melting too quickly.
5. Can I use fresh or dried tarragon?
   Fresh tarragon provides the best flavor, but dried tarragon can also be used in a pinch, though the taste will be slightly less vibrant.

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Conclusion

Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is a simple yet elegant dish that will elevate any meal with its crispy, creamy texture and balanced sweet-savory flavors. The golden-brown crust encases rich, tangy goat cheese, while the drizzle of honey and the aromatic tarragon add layers of depth and sophistication to each bite. This recipe is versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a vibrant salad, making it a delightful addition to any occasion.

With straightforward preparation and impressive results, Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey is a foolproof way to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Customize it with your favorite herbs or pair it with seasonal fruits and greens for a creative twist that suits your style.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave your guests asking for seconds! I can’t wait to see how your Fried Goat Cheese with Tarragon + Honey turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking!