Preparing the Mozzarella:
- Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks approximately 4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. This size is ideal for ensuring that the cheese melts perfectly while frying, without losing its shape.
- Freeze the cheese sticks for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when fried, ensuring a gooey center and a crispy exterior.
Breading the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Beat the eggs and milk together in the second dish. Mix the Panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third dish.
- Dredge each cheese stick in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. For extra crunch, you may double-dip the sticks in the egg and Panko layers.
- Place the breaded cheese sticks on a plate or tray and freeze them again for about 30 minutes. This step solidifies the breading, making it less likely to fall off during frying.
Frying the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (about 175°C). Use enough oil to ensure the sticks can be completely submerged.
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan, for about 1 minute or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcook, or the cheese may start to seep out.
- Drain them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serving:
- Serve the mozzarella sticks hot, accompanied by warmed marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and freshness if desired.
Hosting Tips:
- Prep ahead: You can bread the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and keep them frozen until you’re ready to fry. This makes it easy to serve fresh, hot appetizers without much wait time.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the Panko mixture or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
- Presentation: Serve the mozzarella sticks on a platter with a bowl of marinara sauce in the center. Garnishing the platter with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese can add a touch of elegance.
These Panko Breaded Mozzarella Sticks are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a way to create moments of joy and connection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, the combination of crispy Panko and molten mozzarella is sure to leave everyone craving just one more bite.