Mozzarella Sticks 🧀:
Ingredients 🧀
– 12 mozzarella cheese sticks 🧀
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 🌾
– 2 large eggs, beaten 🥚
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian) 🌾
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 🌿
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 🌿
– Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂🌶️
– Vegetable oil, for frying 💧
Preparation 🍳
1. Prepare Cheese Sticks: Freeze the mozzarella cheese sticks for at least 30 minutes to make them easier to handle and less likely to melt during frying. 🧀❄️
2. Set Up Breading Station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a third shallow dish. 🌾🥚🧀🌿
3. Bread Cheese Sticks: Dredge each cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, dip the sticks in the egg and breadcrumbs a second time. 🌾🥚🧀
4. Heat Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). 💧🕒
5. Fry Cheese Sticks: Fry the cheese sticks in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan, for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels. 🕒🔥
6. Serve: Serve the mozzarella sticks warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy! 😋🍽️