Fried Cheese:

Place flour, beaten egg, and panko or bread crumbs each in separate bowls for dredging. Season crumbs with black pepper.

Dredge cheese cubes in flour, egg, then in crumbs. Place breaded cubes on wax paper and place in freezer for fifteen minutes to firm up.

Heat oil in medium frying pan over medium-high heat until oil is hot and shimmering. Fry cheese cubes until golden brown, turning once — about 1 minute per side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool slightly.

Balsamic Reduction:

Place vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk to blend.

Bring to a boil and cook until mixture is reduced by more than half, about 20 minutes; mixture should have a syrupy consistency.

Remove from heat, allow to cool.

Transfer to a container or squeeze bottle to store.

Assembly:

Carefully thread a tomato half (cut side up), a baby basil leaf (or medium leaf folded over), cheese cube, another basil leaf, and finish with another tomato half (cut side down) on skewers. 

Drizzle with balsamic reduction immediately before serving.

Recipe published in JOY of KOSHER with Jamie Geller magazine Winter 2015. Subscribe Now.