Feast on Some Smazeny Syr

This dish is perfect for cheese lovers and vegetarians looking for a satisfying meal. It's definitely suitable for adventurous eaters willing to try Czech street food and those who appreciate comfort food choices.

Smažený sýr offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The outer layer has a satisfying crunch, while the inside is molten and creamy. The dish is savory, enhanced by the rich taste of cheese, and paired well with the tangy tartar sauce.

Smažený sýr is traditionally paired with crispy fries and served with a side of tartar sauce for dipping. For drinks, a cold Czech beer or a light white wine complements the deep-fried richness, making for a well-rounded meal.

1. Cheese: The main ingredient, usually a soft cheese like Edam or Hermelín, providing a rich and creamy texture.
2. Batter: Typically made of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, it gives the dish its characteristic crunch when fried.
3. Oil: Used for frying, contributing to the dish's deep-fried flavor and crispiness.
4. Tartar sauce: Often served as a dipping accompaniment, adding a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese.
5. Potatoes: Typically served as fries alongside, offering a hearty side that complements the cheese.

The preparation of Smažený sýr begins with selecting the right cheese. The cheese is coated in flour, dipped in a seasoned egg mixture, and then coated in breadcrumbs. After that, it's deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Traditionally, it's served hot, ensuring that the inner cheese is gooey and melted.

Undertaking this food challenge in Prague will let you experience a quintessential part of Czech culinary culture. Smažený sýr is not only a flavorful delight but an embodiment of Czech communal dining experiences, often enjoyed during festive occasions. It offers you an authentic taste of Prague, promising a satisfying meal that resonates with locals and visitors alike. The challenge lies in finding the perfect local vendor, as each brings its own twist to this beloved dish.

Variation with Spicy Cheese

Some regions have started experimenting by using spicy cheeses, such as Jalapeño-infused varieties, adding a fiery kick to the classic dish.

Vegetarian Twist

In vegetarian cafés, Smažený sýr is often served with a unique herb-infused batter, enhancing its flavor profile while keeping it meat-free.

Today, Smažený sýr is not just a dish; it's a cultural icon in Czech cuisine. Commonly found at street food markets, festivals, and small eateries, it represents a casual and communal eating experience. People often enjoy it at social gatherings, enjoying hearty bites and sharing accompanied stories. Its prevalence at music festivals highlights its role in modern Czech social culture.

Smažený sýr has its roots in Czech culinary tradition, likely dating back to the 1980s when it became a staple in pubs and restaurants across the Czech Republic. Its popularity surged in the post-communist era where fast food varieties started to emerge. Originally influenced by similar European dishes, Smažený sýr reflects the Czech love for fried foods. The dish embodies a sense of nostalgia, often enjoyed during festivals and gatherings, revealing its deep-seated place in Czech culture.

A beloved street food

Smažený sýr is one of the most popular street foods in the Czech Republic, often accompanying beer festivals or local markets.

Cheese by the Kilo

Czech people consume an estimated 20 kilograms of cheese per person annually, showcasing the nation's passion for dairy.

Changing Times

Once viewed as a traditional fast food, it has now taken a gourmet twist, with chefs experimenting with fancy cheese varieties and unique batters in fine dining establishments.