Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) whole milk mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups (200g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup (100g) Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (approximately 3-4 cups/700ml-950ml)
  • 1 (28 ounce/800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut mozzarella into sticks.
  2. Arrange flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture in separate shallow dishes.
  3. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, ensuring it's fully coated.
  4. Dip the floured stick into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
  5. Dredge the egg-coated stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
  6. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
  7. Place breaded mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour.
  8. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches.
  10. Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  12. While sticks are chilling or frying, heat olive oil in a saucepan, saute garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes, herbs, and seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  13. Serve hot and gooey with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your homemade mozzarella sticks!