Homemade Lithuanian Appetizer Recipes

If you have ever wanted to try a new dish, maybe even something a little ethnic, I have the perfect homemade recipes for you. These two appetizer recipes are perfect especially when you want to be sure you and your family will like the outcome. These are similar to traditional American cuisine, but not only are these Lithuanian dishes authentic and easy to prepare, but they are also so delicious that you won't have to fight with your kids to get them to eat it. Lithuanian foods are very rich in flavor and in calories as well. To reduce the fat and cholesterol, a canola oil can be used in place of olive oil or vegetable oil.

Keptas Suris
-Fried Cheese Slices-

1 egg
3 tablespoons of milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons of all purpose flour
Cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick
Bread crumbs
1/4 cup oil (for frying)
1 cup of sour cream (for serving)

Beat egg in small separate bowl then add salt, milk and flour. Dip the cheese slices individually into the batter, making sure that each slice is coated fully with the mixture. Next, dip the battered cheese slices into the bread crumbs, making sure to coat evenly. Fry the slices in the canola, vegetable, or olive oil (whichever you prefer) until they begin to float. Be careful not to overcook - when they turn a nice golden brown color they should be finished. Place each slice on some paper towels, to drain the oil from them - making sure they do not touch or they could stick together while cooling. Let the cheese slices cool down for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve warm with sour cream and enjoy!

Bulviniai Sklindziai
-Potato Pancakes-

2 large potatoes
1/4 small onion
2 eggs
2 tablespoons of cracker crumbs (I use Ritz or Club)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 cup of sour cream (for serving)

Peel and grate the potatoes and onion and combine in a large bowl with the eggs, cracker crumbs, salt and onion powder. Grating potatoes can be made easier by placing the peeled potatoes into the freezer or refrigerator for a few minutes to chill them. Fry on a hot, greased skillet until the underside is golden brown, then flip and fry the other side as directed. Place on paper towels to drain the grease and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve warm with sour cream, if desired. Chives can be placed in the sour cream to create a fresh burst of flavor.