Fried Primosale
- Lactose Free
- Vegetarian
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Prep time: 10 min
- Cook time: 10 min
- Makes: 8 pieces
- Cost: Very low
PRESENTATION
Fried primosale is a beloved snack in Sicily and other parts of Southern Italy, especially when folks are craving something fun for aperitivo. It's really popular. This dish uses primosale cheese, a soft, semi-aged sheep’s milk cheese often found in local markets. Unlike regular fried mozzarella, fried primosale offers a firmer texture with a tender bite, thanks to its unique aging process of just a few months. And when the cheese hits that hot oil, it develops a crispy, golden exterior—perfect for munching before dinner with a drink. The flavor is kinda tangy and saltier than mozzarella, really standing out when served with fresh bread or a splash of lemon.
People in Sicily love this snack for its simple, punchy taste and how it brings a fun twist to the usual fried cheese lineup. And listen, throughout Southern Italy, fried primosale is a popular starter or quick snack, offering a tasty combination of crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Pretty much a hit during aperitivo hour, usually stacked alongside olives, cured meats, and other small bites.
What makes it special is how primosale cheese maintains its shape after frying, avoiding the melty mess often associated with mozzarella. Really great, right? Some Sicilian spots might add herbs or pair it with spicy honey for extra flavor. The contrast between the cheese’s tender, savory inside and its crunchy exterior keeps people coming back for more. When a plate of fried primosale is brought out at a party, it’s bound to disappear quickly. And you know what? This dish doesn’t require much fuss—just quality cheese, a hot pan, and maybe a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.
It’s one of those Italian snacks that feels right at home with good company and a glass of something cold, offering a little taste of Sicily in every bite. So next time you're planning a gathering, consider adding this to your menu. It's an authentic, flavorful experience. Seriously good.
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- INGREDIENTS
- Primosale cheese 1.4 lbs (650 g)
- Type 00 flour 1 ¼ cup (150 g)
- Breadcrumbs 1 ¼ cup (150 g)
- Eggs 2
- Fine salt 1 tsp
- Vegetable oil to taste - for frying
How to prepare Fried Primosale
To prepare fried primosale, first cut it into slices 1. Depending on the size of the primosale you have, you can choose to make slices or cubes. Break the eggs into a small bowl and beat them 2, then pour the breadcrumbs into another small bowl and season it with a pinch of salt 3. Finally, put the flour in a third small bowl. Place a pot with oil on the stove and heat it until it reaches a temperature of 329°F.
At this point, dip the primosale first in the flour 4 and then in the egg (5-6).
Finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs 7 ensuring it is well covered on all sides. Then transfer it to a tray 8 and continue with the other slices. Once the oil has reached the right temperature, immerse a few pieces at a time 9, so as not to lower the temperature too much.
Cook for about 4 minutes, and as soon as it is well golden, drain the fried primosale 10 and transfer it to a tray lined with paper towels 11. Adjust the cooking time according to the size of the primosale; our pieces were about 5.6 oz. Fry the remaining slices and serve 12.