Take the oscypek out of the fridge 15–20 minutes before grilling so that the cheese reaches room temperature — this will help it heat evenly and prevent cracking. Wash and dry the basil leaves, tear off the larger stems, and leave everything in a bowl with a paper towel. Prepare the honey in a small bowl and lightly warm it if it is very thick (in a water bath for 30–60 seconds).
Description
Grilled oscypek with honey and fresh basil is a light, aromatic appetizer that combines the smoky, springy cheese from the Tatra Mountains with the summer freshness of basil and the natural sweetness of honey. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, as an elegant appetizer for Christmas in a modern variant, or as a snack for grilling. The contrast of textures (crispy crust, soft but not melted center) and the balance of flavors (salty-smoky cheese, sweet honey, spicy pepper, green notes of basil) create a stunning flavor and visual composition. Serve immediately after grilling, on arugula or a board, garnished with fresh basil and chopped nuts for crunch.
Ingredients Used
Ingredients (7)
- Oscypek 4 pcs (~400 g)
- Honey 60 ml
- Rapeseed oil 15 g
- 🌿 Spices
- Basil 30 g
- Black pepper 2 pinch (~1 g)
- ✨ Optional
- Arugula 60 g
- Walnuts 30 g
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Preparation steps
Preparation
Cut the oscypek into slices 8–10 mm thick. Place the cheese on a board and hold it with your hand to prevent it from slipping, then cut straight with a knife. Each slice should be even so that they grill evenly.
Gently brush both sides of each slice with a little canola oil using a kitchen brush — a thin layer will prevent sticking and help achieve nice grill marks.
Grilling
Preheat the outdoor grill to medium-high temperature (about 200–220°C) or a well-heated grill pan on the stove; the grate should be hot so that the cheese quickly gets color. If using a grill pan, brush it with one teaspoon of oil and wipe it with a paper towel.
Arrange the slices of oscypek on a heated grill or pan in a single layer, leaving a few centimeters of space between them. Grill for 1–2 minutes without moving them, until clear grill marks appear and the edges soften slightly. Gently flip with tongs and grill for another 40–90 seconds — the cheese should be warm and springy, but not melted.
Immediately after removing the slices from the grill, place them on a plate or board. Drizzle each slice with a thin thread of honey (about 0.5–1 teaspoon of honey per slice) and immediately sprinkle with freshly torn basil leaves. Add freshly ground pepper to taste.
Serving
Optionally, spread a thin layer of arugula under the slices (about 15 g per person) and sprinkle everything with finely chopped walnuts. The arugula will add freshness, while the walnuts will provide crunch and depth of flavor.
Serve immediately — preferably on a wooden board or a flat plate, arranging the slices in a slightly overlapping fan shape. This appetizer pairs well with fresh bread (e.g. baguette) and a glass of light wine or berry compote.
Fun Fact
Oscypek is a traditional highlander cheese from Podhale, listed as a regional and protected product. The combination of smoked cheese with honey is a folk practice — the sweetness of the honey contrasts distinctly with the smokiness of the cheese.
Best for
Tips
Serve the cheeses immediately after grilling — the slices should be warm and springy. Arrange them on arugula or on a wooden board, drizzling with honey just before serving. Complement with walnuts and thinly sliced pear or fresh raspberries. Serve with sourdough bread or a crispy baguette.
It's best to eat them right away. If there are leftovers, store the slices in a closed container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. To reheat, use a grill pan over medium heat for 30–60 seconds on each side — avoid the microwave, as the cheese will lose its texture. Honey should not be added before long-term storage.
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