Smažený sýr Stuffed Parmesan Potato Pancakes

Prepare the Potato Pancakes

1. 1Squeeze excess moisture from the grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. 2In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, 2 eggs, 3 tbsp flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. 3Heat about 1 cm of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. 4Form portions of the potato mixture into pancake shapes, about 10-12 cm in diameter. Gently flatten them slightly.
5. 5Carefully place a piece of hermelín cheese in the center of half of the potato pancakes. Top with the remaining potato pancakes, pressing the edges to seal.
6. 6Fry the stuffed potato pancakes for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels and keep warm. You may need to do this in batches.

Prepare the Fried Cheese

1. 1Prepare three shallow dishes: one with 4oz flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 5oz bread crumbs. Season the flour and bread crumbs with a little salt and pepper.
2. 2Gently press the hermelín cheese halves together to form a whole cheese. Dredge each whole cheese piece first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with bread crumbs, ensuring it's well-covered.
3. 3In a deep pot or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil for deep frying to 170-180°C (340-350°F).
4. 4Carefully lower the breaded hermelín cheese into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.
5. 5Remove the fried cheese with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. This step should ideally be done just before serving.

Assemble and Serve

1. 1Place a warm potato pancake on a serving plate.
2. 2Top the potato pancake with a freshly fried smažený sýr.
3. 3Serve immediately, optionally with tartar sauce or a side salad.