Saganaki Pan-Seared Kasseri Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 ozKasseri cheese square ½-inch thick
• 2 tbspall-purpose flour for light dredge
• 1 tbspextra-virgin olive oil
• 2 ozbrandy or Metaxa
• ½ mediumlemon for squeezing
• 1 pinchfreshly cracked black pepper, optional
• 1 slicecrusty bread or pita wedges for serving

Instructions

1. 1
   Lightly dredge the cheese square in flour on both sides, patting off any excess.
2. 2
   Heat olive oil in a small heavy skillet (about 8-inch) over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. 3
   Gently lay the floured cheese into the hot oil and sear 45-60 seconds per side until golden and just starting to soften at the edges.
4. 4
   Move skillet to safely accessible spot and avert your eyes. Pour brandy slowly alongside the cheese. Using a long kitchen lighter, ignite the brandy—higher flames yield the full OPA experience.
5. 5
   Allow flames to subside naturally after 15-20 seconds; this infuses the cheese with subtle sweetness and caramelizes the surface.
6. 6
   Squeeze a generous wedge of lemon over the sizzling cheese to halt cooking and brighten flavors.
7. 7
   Slide the melty cheese onto a warm plate, crack pepper if desired, and serve immediately with hot bread or pita for scooping.