Czech Pub-Style Smažený Sýr: Breaded Fried Edam Cheese Served with Tartar Sauce and Fries
Czech Pub-Style Smažený Sýr is a beloved dish featuring crispy, breaded Edam cheese served with a tangy tartar sauce and crispy fries. It's a delicious comfort food that's easy to make at home, bringing the flavors of Czechia right to your table.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Pat the cheese dry and chill it well. Set out flour, eggs beaten with milk, and breadcrumbs in separate dishes.
- 2
Coat each slice in flour, egg and breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs firmly around every edge.
- 3
Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating to seal the cheese and prevent it escaping during frying.
- 4
Heat about 1 cm of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese briefly on both sides until deeply golden, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
- 5
Drain for a moment and serve immediately, while the centre is molten, with tartar sauce and fries or boiled potatoes.
Cook notes
Tips
Press the coating carefully over the corners and edges.
Boiled potatoes are an especially traditional accompaniment; fries are common in pubs.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover fries separately in an airtight container to maintain their texture.
- Reheat fried Edam cheese in an oven or air fryer to keep it crispy.
Substitutions
- Gouda or havarti cheese can replace Edam cheese for a variation.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating instead of regular breadcrumbs.
What to Serve With
- A side salad with vinaigrette
- Pickles or fried onion rings
- Coleslaw for some crunch
Common Mistakes
- Skipping the second egg-and-crumb coating, which lets the cheese leak into the oil.
- Using thin or warm cheese slices that melt before the crust browns.
- Holding the fried cheese too long instead of serving it immediately.
Recipe FAQ
What can I use instead of Edam cheese?
You can substitute Edam cheese with gouda or havarti cheese for a similar taste.
How do I store leftover Smažený Sýr?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the cheese ahead of time and fry it just before serving for the best texture.
Kitchen tools
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Blender
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Skillet
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Chef knife
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Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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