Patrick Oconnell
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. From baking to pan-frying, searing to deep-frying, there are multiple methods to heat goat cheese and incorporate it into a range of dishes. Goat cheese can be used as a salad topper, a dip, or a spread on bread, crackers, or crostini. It can also be melted into hot pasta or stirred into hot soups or sauces. This cheese is a great option for those looking to add a tangy, creamy element to their meal without overpowering other flavours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 400 °F (204 °C) |
| Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Method | Baking, pan-frying, searing, microwaving |
| Ingredients | Goat cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, bread crumbs, egg wash |
| Serving suggestions | Bread, crackers, crostini, pita, vegetables, salads, burgers, sandwiches |
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What You'll Learn
Baking goat cheese
Firstly, decide on the type of goat cheese you want to use. Fresh chèvre, a French term for goat cheese, is a common choice and can be found in log form. You can also experiment with flavoured goat cheese varieties or substitute it with brie or feta.
Baking Methods:
One popular method is to create a baked goat cheese dip. For this, you will need goat cheese, marinara sauce (a traditional Italian tomato sauce), basil, and coarse salt. Press the goat cheese into a small baking dish, leaving a border around the edge. Spoon the marinara sauce around the border, covering the edge of the goat cheese. Sprinkle with salt and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is warm and soft and the marinara is bubbling.
Another option is to create a honey-swirled baked goat cheese. For this, you will need goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Combine these ingredients in a food processor and process until the mixture is lightly whipped and has a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake until the cheese is warm and soft. This can be served as a dip with crusty bread, crackers, or pita chips.
Additionally, you can bake goat cheese in a salad. Slice the goat cheese into rounds and sear them in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Place the seared goat cheese on a bed of greens, such as frisee or arugula, and top with a Dijon mustard dressing, walnuts, and a drizzle of honey.
Tips:
- If you're short on time, soften the goat cheese before spreading it in your dish.
- For a spicy kick, add jalapenos, red pepper flakes, or mix the marinara with Calabrian chili paste.
- Goat cheese can also be breaded and deep-fried, added to soups, or baked into cheesecakes for a unique dessert option.
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Pan-frying goat cheese
Preparation:
First, you will need to cut the goat cheese into slices of equal thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking or undercooking. You can place the goat cheese log in the freezer before slicing to make it easier to cut and maintain neat slices. Dipping the cheese in flour before slicing also helps to reshape the rounds into smooth circles.
Breading:
Next, prepare a simple breading mixture. This typically includes flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. You can use regular, finer breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture. For added flavour, you can season the breadcrumbs with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a little honey. You can also add chopped pecans or garlic powder to the coating.
Frying:
Heat a pan over medium to medium-high heat and add a little oil or butter to prevent the cheese from sticking. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or butter, depending on your preference. Gently place the breaded goat cheese slices in the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep a close watch, as it cooks quickly. Use a spatula to flip the cheese and fry the other side.
Serving:
Pan-fried goat cheese can be served in a variety of ways. It is delicious on its own, paired with crackers or bread, or as a topping for salads. It also goes well with fruits like berries, olives, or tapenade. You can also try it on a burger or as a sauce for potatoes.
Storage:
Leftover fried goat cheese slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, use a skillet or air fryer for the best results.
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Heating goat cheese in the microwave
While it is possible to heat goat cheese in the microwave, it is not recommended. When microwaved, goat cheese tends to separate, fall apart, and become rubbery.
If you decide to heat goat cheese in the microwave, it is best to do so for no more than 30 seconds at high power. The exact time will depend on your microwave's power and settings, so it is important to keep a close eye on the cheese to avoid overcooking it. To heat goat cheese in the microwave, place the desired amount of cheese on a microwave-safe plate and microwave in short intervals until it reaches your desired level of meltiness.
However, if you are looking for a more versatile heating method that won't compromise the texture of the cheese, consider alternative methods such as searing or baking.
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Seared goat cheese
To make seared goat cheese, start by slicing a log of goat cheese into disks or balls. If you are making disks, a thickness of 1/2-inch works well. Freezing the goat cheese for 15-30 minutes before slicing will make this process easier, and freezing the sliced cheese for at least 1 1/2 hours will help it keep its shape during frying.
Next, prepare three separate dishes. One with flour (all-purpose or gluten-free) mixed with salt, pepper, and dried parsley (optional). Another with an egg wash made from whisking an egg with a tablespoon of water. And a third with seasoned breadcrumbs _(panko) or homemade. You can add thyme, chopped pecans, or a teaspoon of Everything But The Bagel Seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavour.
Now it's time to coat the cheese. Start by pressing the goat cheese into the flour, then dunk it in the egg wash, and finally, press it into the breadcrumbs. Make sure the cheese is thoroughly coated at each step.
Heat some olive oil in a shallow pan over medium heat. Fry the goat cheese for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms, flipping every 15-30 seconds. Remove the cheese from the pan and serve immediately for the best results.
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Deep-fried goat cheese
To make deep-fried goat cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- Goat cheese
- Flour
- Egg
- Bread crumbs
- Oil for frying (olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil)
- Fresh herbs (optional)
- Honey (optional)
First, prepare the goat cheese by slicing it into thick rounds or one-ounce medallions. Use your hands to pack the cheese together tightly. Set up three separate bowls with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. You can season the flour with salt and pepper and add some garlic powder to the breadcrumbs for extra flavour.
Next, dredge the goat cheese in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated, before moving it to the breadcrumbs and coating it thoroughly. Place the breaded cheese on a plate and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour to ensure it stays together during frying.
When you are ready to fry, heat a cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat and add enough oil to be about one and a half inches deep. You can use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, which should be around 300°F. Carefully place the breaded cheese into the hot oil in a single layer, frying in batches if needed. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Remove the fried cheese from the oil and drain on a paper-towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy!
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Frequently asked questions
You should preheat your oven to 400 °F (204 °C).
You will need goat's cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, and bread crumbs. You can also add honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Bake the goat's cheese for about 15 minutes, or until it is heated through. Keep in mind that goat cheese might not brown as much as other types of cheese.
Baked goat's cheese is a great appetizer and can be served with crusty sourdough, crostini, or toasted pita wedges. It also goes well with berries, olives, or tapenade.
Yes, you can heat goat's cheese in the microwave, but it is not recommended as it may separate and fall apart. If you do use a microwave, heat the cheese in 15-second increments, stirring after each one.
