FRIED BRIE WITH ANCHOVY CAPER SALSA

Fried Brie with Anchovy Caper Salsa image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 1h35m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Half a 7- to 8-ounce round high-quality Brie, preferably from France
1 slice white bread, crust removed
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 1/2 cups loosely packed fresh parsley leaves, plus more for garnish
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon drained capers
4 whole cornichons, plus 3 halved lengthwise for garnish
1 anchovy fillet
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
1 large egg
1/2 cup plain dry breadcrumbs

Steps:

Cut the Brie half into 6 small wedges, and freeze until completely frozen, about 1 hour.
Meanwhile, tear the bread into small pieces, and put in a small bowl. Add the vinegar, toss and let sit until the bread is very soft, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a food processor. Add the parsley, olive oil, capers, whole cornichons, anchovy, 1/4 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper, and process until a coarse paste. (The salsa verde can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.)
Fill a small pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Clip a deep-fry thermometer onto the side, and bring the oil to 350 degrees F over medium-low heat. Line a plate with paper towels.
Meanwhile, beat the egg in a small bowl. Put the breadcrumbs in another small bowl.
Bread and fry the Brie in two batches: Dip the wedges in the egg, then roll in the breadcrumbs to cover. Repeat for a double breading (make sure there are no bare spots where the cheese peeks through). Being careful of the hot oil, add half the breaded Brie and fry, turning as needed, until a deep golden brown, about 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, and allow to drain on the paper towels. Repeat with the remaining Brie.
Spoon some of the salsa verde onto 6 small plates. Top each with a wedge of fried Brie, and garnish each with a cornichon half and parsley. Serve hot.