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Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 111 reviews

Crispy, golden mozzarella sticks coated in a flavorful double layer of seasoned panko breadcrumbs, perfect for deep frying. These mozzarella sticks are easy to prepare and freeze, making a delicious snack or appetizer that pairs beautifully with tomato or marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Mozzarella Sticks

  • 200g low moisture mozzarella

Batter

  • 90g plain flour/all purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 150ml cold water

Breadcrumb Coating

  • 100g panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Frying

  • Neutral oil for deep frying

Instructions

  1. Cut Mozzarella: Slice the block of low moisture mozzarella into sticks about 1cm thick or according to your preference for thickness.
  2. Prepare Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, a pinch of salt, and cold water until a smooth batter forms.
  3. Mix Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with dried oregano, dried basil, chilli flakes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned breadcrumb coating.
  4. Set Up Dredging Station: Arrange the mozzarella sticks, bowl of batter, bowl of seasoned breadcrumbs, and a wire rack for placing coated sticks.
  5. First Coat: Dip each mozzarella stick into the batter ensuring even coverage, gently shake off excess, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to thoroughly coat. Place coated sticks on the wire rack.
  6. Rest First Coat: Let the coated sticks sit on the wire rack for 10 minutes to set the coating.
  7. Double Coat: Repeat the dipping into batter and breadcrumbs to create a second, thicker coating for better coverage and crispiness. Return to wire rack and let rest another 10 minutes.
  8. Freeze: Arrange the double-coated mozzarella sticks spaced apart on a lined baking tray and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up. For longer storage, transfer them to a freezer safe bag and freeze up to 3 months.
  9. Heat Oil: When ready to cook, heat neutral oil in a saucepan to 190°C (375°F). Prepare a tray lined with paper towels and a wire rack for draining.
  10. Deep Fry: Fry mozzarella sticks in batches of about 3 at a time to maintain oil temperature. Fry until golden and crispy, which will be very quick.
  11. Drain: Remove fried sticks with a slotted spoon and place on the wire rack over paper towels to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve: Serve immediately, ideally with your favorite tomato or marinara sauce as a dipping accompaniment.

Notes

  • Use low moisture mozzarella for best results as it melts less and helps the sticks hold shape.
  • Double coating is key to prevent cheese from leaking during frying and ensures a crispy crust.
  • Freezing the sticks before frying helps maintain shape and prevents coating from falling off.
  • Maintain oil temperature around 190°C (375°F) to cook evenly and avoid greasy sticks.
  • Chilli flakes are optional but add a nice gentle heat to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Serve immediately right after frying for best texture and flavor.

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, snack, Italian-American, crispy mozzarella, deep fried snack

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/crispy-homemade-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/