Caramelized Feta with Chili-Honey Recipe
This Caramelized Feta with Chili-Honey recipe offers a delightful combination of creamy, tangy feta cheese seared to golden perfection and topped with a spicy-sweet chili-infused honey. Accented by toasted walnuts and aromatic herbs, it makes a perfect appetizer or snack when served with warm pita or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Feta Block:
- 1 block feta cheese (150–200 g), drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Hot Honey:
- 4 tablespoons honey
- ½ to 1 teaspoon chili flakes (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Cracked black pepper
To Serve:
- Warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts: Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Remove them from the pan and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Hot Honey: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice over low heat. Heat just until the mixture starts to bubble gently. Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Pat and Sear Feta: Pat the block of feta dry with paper towels. Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the feta in the skillet and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it forms a golden crust.
- Caramelize with Hot Honey: While the feta is still in the skillet, carefully pour the warm chili-honey mixture over the cheese. Allow the honey to sizzle and begin to caramelize on the surface.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts, fresh herbs if using, and cracked black pepper over the caramelized feta. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the honey to control the spice level.
- Ensure feta is well drained and patted dry to achieve the best sear.
- Use a cast-iron or nonstick skillet for easier caramelization and to prevent sticking.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add an aromatic touch but are optional.
- Serve immediately to enjoy warm and melty caramelized feta with crispy edges.
