Mozzarella Sticks

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Slice the mozzarella into sticks, about 3 inches long and ½ inch wide. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in another shallow bowl. In a third bowl, combine the panko, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper. Taste the panko mix for seasoning, keeping in mind that mozzarella may be salty.

2. Step 2

   Coat all sides of a cheese stick in flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it in the egg, allowing excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, press the stick gently in the panko so all sides are completely coated. Repeat the process, coating a second time. Place the cheese stick on the prepared sheet pan fitted with the wire rack and repeat with the remaining mozzarella slices. Transfer the breaded cheese sticks to the freezer. Freeze until frozen, about 2 hours.

3. Step 3

   Fill a deep, heavy-bottomed pot with 2 inches of oil. Heat over medium-high until the temperature reaches 350 degrees. Line a large plate with paper towels. Working in batches of 3 or 4 to avoid overcrowding, fry the breaded cheese sticks, turning a couple times, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate and serve hot (see Tip 2) with pizza or marinara sauce for dipping. Maintain the oil temperature as needed; if it gets too hot, the cheese will seep out of the crust.