Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks are a popular appetizer and snack, known for their crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior. They are a hit at parties and gatherings, and making them at home allows you to enjoy the freshness and quality of homemade cooking. This recipe combines Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust, encasing the deliciously melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style dried breadcrumbs
- 1 ⅓ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 packages (16 ounces each) mozzarella cheese sticks
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the Italian-style dried breadcrumbs, 1 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese (reserve the rest for later), and salt. Mix these ingredients well.
Step 2: Prep the Cheese Sticks: Unwrap the mozzarella cheese sticks and cut them in half if they are too long. This size makes them easier to handle and fry.
Step 3: Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are well blended.
Step 4: Coating the Cheese Sticks: Dip each cheese stick first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. For a thicker crust, you can double dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating process once more.
Step 5: Chill: Place the coated cheese sticks on a tray or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours. This step is crucial to ensure that the cheese does not melt too quickly when frying.
Step 6: Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or a deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). It's important to have the oil at the right temperature for frying.
Step 7: Fry the Cheese Sticks: Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 1 minute or until they are golden brown.
Step 8: Drain: Remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil and drain them on
paper towels. This helps to remove any excess oil.
Step 9: Serve: Serve the mozzarella sticks while they're hot and gooey. Sprinkle them with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Cooking Note:
Be careful not to over-fry the mozzarella sticks, as the cheese can start oozing out if left in the hot oil for too long.
Serving Suggestions:
Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks are best served with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a garlic aioli. They make great appetizers or snacks for gatherings, game nights, or as a treat for the family.
Tips:
- Freezing is Key: Freezing the coated mozzarella sticks before frying is essential to prevent them from melting too quickly in the hot oil.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. This results in a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
- Breadcrumbs Variation: You can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own herbs and spices for a custom flavor.
- Even Frying: Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches to maintain a consistent oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes (plus freezing time)
Cooking Time:
- 10 minutes
Total Time:
- 25 minutes (excluding freezing time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per stick (varies depending on size and oil absorption)
- Protein: Roughly 8-10 grams per serving
- Sodium: Estimated 200-300 mg per stick
Conclusion
Homemade Fried Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful and easy-to-make snack that brings the joy of a deliciously cheesy and crispy appetizer right to your home kitchen. They are perfect for satisfying your cravings for something cheesy and indulgent, and they're always a crowd-pleaser at any event. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty treats!
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