If you adore a perfect blend of creamy, crispy, and sweet, then the Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This dish brings together soft goat cheese infused with fresh rosemary and thyme, coated in a crunchy herbed breadcrumb crust, then fried to golden perfection and kissed with honey’s natural sweetness. It’s a fantastic appetizer that feels both indulgent and approachable, guaranteed to impress guests or satisfy your craving for something truly special. Let me take you through every loving detail of crafting this irresistible treat, so you can bring that cozy, flavorful magic right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe shine. From aromatic fresh herbs to the sweet drizzle of honey, every component elevates the dish.
- Goat cheese (8-ounce log): The star of the show, providing creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating.
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (½ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, piney note that lifts the flavor profile.
- Fresh thyme, finely chopped (½ teaspoon): Offers a subtle earthiness that complements the goat cheese perfectly.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Brings a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory and tangy elements.
- All-purpose flour (â…“ cup): Creates the first layer of coating to help the batter stick.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (â…› teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick of heat for complexity.
- Large egg (1): Binds the flour and breadcrumbs and helps create that golden crust.
- Milk (1 tablespoon): Lightens the egg wash for an even, crisp coating.
- Panko breadcrumbs (â…” cup): Responsible for that satisfyingly crunchy exterior with a lovely garlicky hint.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses the breadcrumb mix with subtle savoriness.
- Avocado or olive oil (2-3 tablespoons): For frying, providing a neutral flavor and high smoke point for perfect crisping.
How to Make Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Goat Cheese and Herbs
Start by combining softened goat cheese with finely chopped rosemary, thyme, and honey in a bowl. Use a fork to mix everything until the herbs and honey are evenly distributed in the cheese, creating a flavorful, creamy mixture that’s bursting with aromatic goodness.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Goat Cheese
Place the herb-infused goat cheese mixture in the center of a piece of wax or parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape, ensuring it’s compact for easy slicing later. To get those perfect medallions that hold their shape while frying, freeze the log for 20 to 30 minutes or refrigerate it for at least two hours if you’re planning ahead.
Step 3: Slice Into Medallions
Once chilled and firm, use a sharp knife to cut the goat cheese log into 8 even medallions. This step sets the stage for creating perfectly sized portions that cook evenly and look stunning on any plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Dredging Stations
Get ready to bread the medallions by setting up three shallow bowls. In the first, whisk together flour, salt, and black pepper. The second bowl will hold a mixture of beaten egg and milk for the wash. The third contains Panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder. This classic three-step dredging process ensures an extra crispy and flavorful crust around every medallion.
Step 5: Coat the Medallions
Dip each medallion first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it evenly with the garlic-infused Panko breadcrumbs. Taking care to cover each slice thoroughly sets you up for that coveted golden-brown crust that’s irresistible to bite into.
Step 6: Fry to Perfection
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add 4 medallions at a time, frying each side for 1 to 2 minutes until crispy and lightly golden. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, and place the cooked medallions on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.
How to Serve Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs sprinkled on top add a lovely aroma and a pop of green color. Drizzling extra honey right before serving enhances the medallions with a glossy sweetness that beautifully contrasts the crispy cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a Fall Harvest Salad filled with crisp apples, walnuts, and mixed greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It also shines as an appetizer or part of a cheese platter alongside crackers, olives, and fresh fruits.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking two medallions with a layer of fig jam or roasted red pepper spread between them for an elegant bite. Alternatively, serve each medallion atop toasted baguette slices or on mini salad nests for a stunning appetizer presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the fried goat cheese medallions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid stacking them to maintain their crispy texture as much as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze the breaded but unfried medallions by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month and can be fried directly from frozen with a slightly extended cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the medallions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This method crisps them back up without making them soggy, restoring that delightful crunch perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
While goat cheese is ideal due to its creamy texture and tangy flavor, you could try a similar soft cheese like cream cheese or ricotta, but the texture and taste will differ significantly from the original Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe.
What is the best oil to use for frying?
Avocado oil works wonderfully because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but olive oil is also a great alternative. Avoid oils with low smoke points to prevent burning and off-flavors.
Can I make the herb and honey goat cheese mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, shape it into the log, and keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator before proceeding with the chilling and frying steps.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the crispiness.
How do I prevent the medallions from melting too much while frying?
Chilling the goat cheese log before slicing and frying is crucial. Freezing for 20 to 30 minutes firms it up, helping the medallions hold their shape and preventing excessive melting during cooking.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe is like treating yourself to a bite of crispy, creamy heaven. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to devour, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a personal indulgence. Once you experience the delicate balance of textures and flavors, I guarantee it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead, give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with irresistible aromas and happy smiles.
Print
Fried Goat Cheese Medallions with Herbs and Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes including chilling time
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Fried Goat Cheese recipe offers a delightful appetizer featuring creamy goat cheese medallions coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and pan-fried until golden and crispy. Flavored with fresh rosemary, thyme, and a touch of honey, these savory morsels pair beautifully with a Fall Harvest Salad or as a standalone treat with extra honey and herbs for drizzling.
Ingredients
Goat Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8-ounce) goat cheese log (softened)
- ½ teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon honey
Coating
- â…“ cup all purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- â…” cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Frying
- 2–3 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, use a fork to thoroughly mix the softened goat cheese with finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and honey until well combined and smooth.
- Shape and Chill: Place the goat cheese mixture in the center of a piece of wax or parchment paper and roll it into a compact log shape. Freeze for 20 to 30 minutes or refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the log for easier slicing.
- Slice the Cheese Log: Once firm, remove the goat cheese log from the fridge or freezer and, using a sharp knife, cut it into 8 even medallions for frying.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: combine flour, salt, and black pepper in the first; whisk together egg and milk in the second bowl; and mix Panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder in the third bowl. Dip each cheese medallion first into the flour mixture, then dredge in the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for all slices.
- Fry the Goat Cheese Medallions: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add 4 goat cheese slices and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the coating turns a light golden brown. Remove cooked medallions and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat frying with the remaining oil and cheese slices.
- Serve: Serve the fried goat cheese warm as an appetizer, paired with a Fall Harvest Salad or drizzled with extra honey and garnished with fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Freezing the goat cheese log helps it hold shape when slicing and frying.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and aroma.
- Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter and crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
- Adjust cooking oil amount as needed to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
