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Fried Manchego Cheese with Lavender Honey

This effortless appetizer features crispy fried Manchego cheese paired with fragrant lavender honey, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures that will delight your guests.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Spanish
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Lavender Honey
  • 1 cup light honey (wildflower or clover) Use mild honey for a balanced flavor
  • 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers Or use 2 tablespoons fresh lavender
For the Fried Cheese
  • 8 ounces Manchego cheese, rind removed Cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon water For breading
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs Plus extra if needed
  • Vegetable oil (or other neutral oil), for frying About 1 inch in a deep saucepan
  • Salt, for finishing (optional)
  • Toothpicks, for serving (optional)

Method
 

Infuse the Honey
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and lavender. Stir gently and heat just until tiny bubbles form around the edges. Turn off the heat and let it steep for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for stronger flavor).
Strain the Honey
  1. Pour the honey through a fine mesh sieve, pressing the lavender with the back of a spoon to extract all the flavor. Set aside.
Prepare the Cheese
  1. Cut the Manchego into bite-sized cubes.
Bread the Cheese
  1. Coat each cube in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally roll in panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for all pieces. Place them in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes to help the coating set.
Heat the Oil
  1. Pour about 1 inch of oil into a deep saucepan and heat to 375–400°F (190–200°C).
Fry the Cheese
  1. Fry the breaded cubes in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning if needed.
Drain and Season
  1. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot.
Serve
  1. Arrange on a platter, drizzle generously with lavender honey, and serve immediately with toothpicks.

Notes

For best results, refrigerate breaded cheese cubes before frying to prevent melting. Serve hot on a rustic platter and consider pairing with a crisp white wine.