Chef’s Recipe for the Weekend Appetizer

Crédito foto:Chef Cássio Prados

Chef Cássio Prados’ recipe highlights three basic tastes of the palate, including umami

São Paulo, March 2022 – At weekend get-togethers with family and friends, appetizers are a must to pair with those relaxed, convivial moments. Why not make the occasion even more special—with a chef’s touch?

At the invitation of the Umami Committee, the organization responsible for promoting the fifth taste in Brazil, renowned Chef Cássio Prados selected a delicious recipe for the occasion, bringing together salty, sweet, and umami tastes.

“Perfect for informal moments, the ‘umami croc with ginger honey’ will turn a hangout with friends into an incredible sensory experience. The preparation is practical and uses everyday ingredients like eggs, cheese, and honey,” the chef explains.

Check out the recipe:

UMAMI CROC WITH GINGER HONEY

Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: individual

Ingredients

• 1 slice, 4 cm thick, of “margherita” cheese (cow’s and buffalo’s mozzarella)
• 1 lightly beaten egg (50 g)
• 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour (110 g)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon ginger-infused honey

Directions

1. Dredge the cheese slice in the flour, then the egg, then the panko, again in the egg, and finally in the panko. Press gently with the palms of your hands so the crust adheres well to the cheese.
2. Place on a plate and freeze for 10 minutes.
3. Deep-fry in hot oil until golden on both sides.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve hot, accompanied by the ginger-infused honey.

Tip: If you like, substitute the ginger-infused honey with any other honey of your choice.

Prep time: 10 minutes (+ 2 hours in the freezer).
Yield: 1 serving.