Mozzarella sticks are a popular snack or appetizer made with mozzarella cheese coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried until crispy and golden. They are known for their gooey, melted cheese center and crunchy exterior. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:
Ingredients:
- Mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (you can use Italian breadcrumbs for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Cooking oil for frying
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
- Cut the mozzarella sticks in half to make shorter pieces if desired.
- In three separate shallow bowls, set up a breading station. Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with oregano and garlic powder in the third bowl.
- Take a mozzarella stick, coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the cheese to adhere.
- Repeat the process, double-coating each mozzarella stick to ensure a thick and crunchy outer layer.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This helps set the coating and prevents the cheese from oozing out during frying.
- Heat the cooking oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Be cautious not to overcrowd the fryer, as it may cause the sticks to stick together.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried mozzarella sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade mozzarella sticks!