Deep-Fried Cheese with Pear-Cranberry Chutney

Serves 4

On my last visit to Ireland in May, I stumbled upon the newest outpost of the well-known Kilkenny Shop in Shanagarry, East Cork. Business was brisk throughout the shop, including in its lovely café where Saturday shoppers relaxed over chef Fred Pillavoine’s easy-going menu. I persuaded him to share his recipe for chutney, delicious with deep-fried cheese but also with cold meats and pâte.

For the chutney

3 cups white wine vinegar

3 cups brown sugar

2 large onions, finely diced

2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 1/2 pounds firm ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/4 cups dried cranberries

For the cheese

1 cup plain breadcrumbs or Panko

Two 8-ounce rounds Camembert or Brie, each cut into 6 wedges

1 large egg, beaten

Canola oil for frying

Mixed salad greens for garnish

1. Make chutney. In a large saucepan, bring vinegar, sugar, onions, ginger, and cinnamon to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes, or until mixtures starts to thicken. Add pears, reduce heat to simmer, and cook, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes, or until pears are tender and most of liquid has evaporated.
2. Remove from heat and stir in salt and cranberries. Let cool completely; cover and refrigerate for up to 1 month. (Makes about 2 1/2 cups)
3. Make cheese. Sift flour onto large plate and coat cheese on all sides. Dip into egg and then coat with breadcrumbs. In a deep fryer or skillet, heat oil to about 350° F. Gently lower wedges into oil and fry for 2 to 3 minutes on all sides, or until golden. With a slotted spoon, remove cheese to paper towel-lined plate to drain.
4. To serve, spoon chutney into ramekins, arrange salad on plates, and top with wedges of cheese.