Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Italian-style dried breadcrumbs
• 1 1/3 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 16-ounce packages mozzarella cheese sticks (about 24 sticks)
• 4 large eggs, beaten to blend
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Breading Station:

1. Breadcrumb Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the Italian-style dried breadcrumbs, 1 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, beat the 4 large eggs until well blended.

2. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:

1. First Coating: Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
2. Breadcrumb Coating: Roll the egg-coated mozzarella stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet or plate.
3. Double Coating: For extra crispiness, repeat the dipping process by coating each breadcrumb-covered stick in the beaten eggs once more, followed by another roll in the breadcrumb mixture. This double coating helps to create a thick, crispy exterior.

3. Chill the Coated Sticks:

1. Chill Time: Place the double-coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the coating to adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

4. Heat the Oil:

1. Oil Temperature: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil maintains a consistent temperature for optimal frying.

5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:

1. Fry in Batches: Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn the sticks for even cooking.
2. Drain: Once fried, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the mozzarella sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve:

1. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle the fried mozzarella sticks with the remaining 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese while they are still hot.
2. Serving: Serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Prevent Leaking Cheese: Make sure to double coat the mozzarella sticks to create a thick barrier that prevents the cheese from leaking out during frying.
• Consistent Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature, ensuring it stays around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the cheese inside melts; if too cool, the sticks will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
• Chilling Time: Do not skip the chilling step, as it helps the coating adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.

Variations:

• Herb-Flavored Coating: Add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can coat the mozzarella sticks and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. For longer storage, freeze them and fry directly from frozen, adjusting the frying time as needed.
2. What type of mozzarella should I use?
   • Use mozzarella cheese sticks, which are specifically designed for snacking and have the right texture for frying. Fresh mozzarella is too moist and may not work well for this recipe.
3. How do I prevent the coating from falling off during frying?
   • Ensure the mozzarella sticks are well-coated and adequately chilled before frying. Double coating and pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the sticks also help.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   • Yes, you can bake the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks are a delicious appetizer or snack that everyone will love. With their crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling, they are perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you crave a cheesy treat. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear in no time!