These Crispy Oven Fried Feta Rolls are a tasty treat! With creamy feta cheese wrapped in crispy pastry and drizzled with sweet chili honey, they make a delightful appetizer.
They disappear fast at gatherings, and trust me, you’ll want to save a few for yourself. I love pairing them with a fresh salad for a yummy meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Feta is the star of this dish, offering a tangy flavor and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using reduced-fat feta or even goat cheese for a different taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide a nice crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they may not be quite as crispy. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Honey: This sweet component enhances the flavors beautifully. If you want a vegan option, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Chili Flakes: Adjust the spice level according to your liking. If you prefer less heat, use paprika or leave out chili completely. You can also try fresh chopped chilis for a different flavor.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Feta Rolls?
The key to crispy oven-fried feta rolls lies in the breading and baking technique. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Breading Process: Make sure each piece of feta is well-coated in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to create a solid crust. Double coating is better for extra crunch!
- Oil Spraying: Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on the rolls before baking. This promotes browning and crispiness.
- Oven Baking: Baking at a high temperature (400°F) ensures the rolls cook through and develop a golden-brown color. Remember to flip them halfway for even cooking.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve deliciously crispy feta rolls every time!
Crispy Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
Ingredients:
For the Feta Rolls:
- 200g feta cheese block
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Chili Honey Sauce:
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Crumbled feta for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time rolling the feta and getting it nice and crispy, plus a few minutes to prepare the tasty chili honey sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray or brush it with olive oil. This will help keep your feta rolls from sticking.
2. Cut the Feta:
Next, take your block of feta cheese and cut it into roll-sized pieces, about 2 inches long. These will be the delightful centers of your crispy rolls!
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one bowl with flour (seasoned lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano), another with beaten eggs, and the last one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with some oregano and garlic powder for flavor.
4. Bread the Feta:
Take each feta piece and dip it into the flour, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko mixture. For that extra crispy goodness, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for double coating!
5. Arrange and Drizzle:
Place your beautifully coated feta rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil over the rolls to help them crisp up nicely while they bake.
6. Bake the Rolls:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the feta rolls bake for about 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and turn golden brown.
7. Make the Chili Honey Sauce:
While the feta rolls are baking, prepare the chili honey sauce. Warm the honey gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the red chili flakes and add rosemary or thyme sprigs if desired. Let it infuse for a couple of minutes, then remove from heat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the feta rolls are golden crisp, transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the warm chili honey over the hot feta rolls, and sprinkle with extra crumbled feta and fresh herbs if you like.
Serve immediately, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy, salty, sweet, and spicy flavors!
This recipe is perfect for sharing as an appetizer or savoring as a delicious snack. Enjoy every bite! 😄
Can I Use Regular Breadcrumbs Instead of Panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko on hand! While panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture, regular breadcrumbs will still add some crispness to the rolls.
How to Store Leftover Feta Rolls?
Store any leftover feta rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the feta rolls in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Spicy Are These Feta Rolls?
The spice level can be adjusted easily to your liking! Start with 1 tablespoon of chili flakes, and taste before adding more. If you prefer less heat, you can leave the chili flakes out altogether.
