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Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Without String Cheese

Homemade mozzarella sticks without string cheese - the image shows a plate of nine pieces of breaded fish sticks arranged in a circular pattern on a dark green plate. the fish sticks are golden brown in color and appear to be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. they are arranged in two rows of three, with the top row slightly overlapping the bottom row. the plate is sitting on a black surface, possibly a table or countertop.

Crispy, golden homemade mozzarella sticks made from fresh mozzarella blocks, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A delicious appetizer perfect for snacking or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

16 ounces fresh mozzarella block, cut into 12 sticks (about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons water
1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)

Instructions

Cut the fresh mozzarella block into 12 sticks, each approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Place the sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up.
In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until fully combined.
In a third shallow bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer. One at a time, dredge each stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip the floured mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
Then roll the stick in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well.
For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating once more for each stick.
Place the coated mozzarella sticks back on the parchment-lined tray and freeze for an additional 30 minutes to prevent cheese leakage during frying.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the mozzarella sticks.
Carefully fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, without overcrowding, for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried mozzarella sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.