Ingredients:

  • 16 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into 3x1 inch sticks
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup neutral oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Arrange three bowls in a row. Fill the first with flour. In the second, whisk the beaten eggs. In the third, combine the Panko, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
  2. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg wash until fully coated, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps a second time for a thick, protective shell.
  3. Place the breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 60 minutes to solidify the coating.
  4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry sticks in batches of 3-4 for 1-2 minutes per side until deep golden brown.
  5. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately sprinkle with salt while hot.