National Dish Austria: Fried Camembert (Recipe)
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There is something irresistible about cutting into a wedge of fried camembert and watching the warm, molten cheese spill out from beneath its crisp golden coating. This much-loved Austrian starter brings together creamy, melting cheese and a crunchy breaded crust, all served with fresh bread and a fruity dip. Quick to make and endlessly satisfying, it is the perfect choice for a cosy evening with friends or a special occasion that calls for a little indulgence.
About Fried Camembert
Fried camembert is a delicious starter that enjoys great popularity not only in Austria but in many countries around the world. It owes its appeal to the soft, molten texture that develops as the cheese warms through, paired with the crisp breaded coating that gives it its signature crunch. This dish is perfect for sociable evenings with friends or for festive occasions. Served with fresh bread and a fruity dip, it is a true treat for the palate and a wonderful introduction to hearty Austrian cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 1 camembert (approx. 250 g)
- 2 eggs
- Breadcrumbs (approx. 100 g)
- Flour (approx. 50 g)
- Oil, for frying
- Fresh baguette or white bread
- For the dip: jam or cranberry sauce
Shopping for the ingredients
To prepare the perfect fried camembert, it is important to choose the right ingredients. Take care to buy a good-quality camembert, as the quality of the cheese is decisive for the final taste. Visit a well-stocked supermarket or a local cheese shop to find fresh and flavoursome ingredients. The bread should be fresh too, so that it complements the dish and offers the perfect contrast to the creamy, melting centre.
Preparing the dish
Preparing fried camembert is wonderfully straightforward. First, gather all your ingredients and take the cheese out of the fridge so that it can soften gently at room temperature. Next, set up your breading station by whisking the eggs in a bowl and placing the flour and breadcrumbs in separate dishes. This bit of groundwork helps you coat the cheese evenly and achieve a perfect golden crust.
Step-by-step instructions
- Take the camembert out of its packaging and, if you like, peel away a thin layer of the rind.
- Roll the cheese in flour first, so that it is evenly coated all over.
- Then draw the cheese through the whisked eggs so that a good layer clings to the surface.
- Finally, turn the cheese in the breadcrumbs and press firmly so the coating adheres well.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan and carefully lower in the breaded cheese.
- Fry the cheese for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Lift it out with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
- Serve the fried camembert hot with fresh bread and a fruity dip.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of fried camembert, you can swap the ordinary flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, such as rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. To make the dish lactose-free, reach for one of the lactose-free camembert alternatives now widely available in supermarkets. That way, even those with intolerances can enjoy the relaxed pleasure of a fried camembert, much like a forgiving plate of Kasnudeln.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
This dish is naturally vegetarian, and vegans can prepare an equally delicious alternative by using plant-based cheese substitutes. These come in a range of flavours and offer a similar creamy texture. Instead of eggs, you can use a mixture of plant-based milk and cornflour to fix the coating in place. The enjoyment remains every bit as great, and the preparation stays quick and uncomplicated.
More tips and tricks
To achieve that perfect golden, crisp crust, it is important to heat the oil to the right temperature. A simple test is to drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles straight away, the temperature is just right. While frying, take care not to overcrowd the pan, so that the cheese cooks evenly. Draining on kitchen paper afterwards helps remove any excess oil before serving for a lighter result.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Fried camembert lends itself beautifully to personal tweaks. Experiment with different spices or add herbs to the breadcrumb coating to give it a special note. The choice of dip can vary too; try a garlic and yoghurt dip or a ranch-style dressing, for instance, for a new flavour experience. This way, every plate offers a fresh little culinary adventure.
Ingredient substitutions
If you would rather not use eggs, you can turn to plant-based alternatives such as chickpea flour to bread the camembert. For a lighter version, try baking the camembert in the oven instead of frying it; simply bake at 200 °C for around 15–20 minutes until it is beautifully melted and golden brown. The flour can also be replaced with coconut flour or ground almonds to lend the dish a new flavour while keeping it gluten-free.
Drink pairing ideas
Fried camembert pairs wonderfully with a light white wine that complements the creamy texture of the cheese. A well-chilled Riesling or a Sauvignon Blanc offers an ideal match for this dish. A fruity rosé works just as refreshingly. If you prefer alcohol-free options, sparkling water with lemon or a lightly fruity smoothie suits the dish nicely and provides a welcome refreshment.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays a big part in the enjoyment of fried camembert. Serve the cheese on a wooden board or a handsome ceramic plate, garnished with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an appealing look. The bread can be cut into pretty slices or served in the form of small baguettes. For a colourful contrast, add a few fresh berries or several little bowls of different dips to round everything off.
A bit of history
Fried camembert has its roots in France, where it is known as a traditional delicacy. The combination of savoury cheese and a crunchy coating soon found its way into Austrian kitchens, however. The dish stands as a symbol of Austrian Gemütlichkeit — a food culture that celebrates good company and the simple joy of eating. In many home kitchens, fried camembert has become a firm favourite and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, sitting comfortably alongside classics such as Wiener Schnitzel and Backhendl.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Fried Camembert
In summary, fried camembert offers a generous flavour experience that is wonderfully easy to prepare. With a little groundwork and the right ingredients, you can bring this traditional dish into your own kitchen. Whether as a starter or a snack, this deliciously crisp, melting cheese delights every cheese lover. Enjoy this slice of Austrian Gemütlichkeit and impress your guests with a dish that wins them over in both taste and looks.
