Medieval Fried Cheese Treat (Casio in Pastelletto)

A fascinating historical Italian recipe dating back to medieval times, "Casio in pastelletto" translates roughly to "cheese treat." Slices of semi-aged cheese are quickly pan-fried in butter or lard, then dusted with sugar and aromatic cinnamon as they melt into a sweet and savory indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 slices cheese (mid-aged, balanced flavor)
• 1 tbsp butter or lard (for frying)
• 1 to 2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Melt a small amount of butter or lard in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the slices of mid-aged cheese into the pan.
3. Immediately sprinkle sugar and ground cinnamon generously over the top of the cheese slices.
4. Pan-fry for 2 to 3 minutes just until the cheese softens and begins to melt, then remove from the pan immediately before it fully breaks down.
5. Transfer to a small plate and serve warm.