Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

Mozzarella cheese

12 ounces, cut into sticks

Egg

1, beaten

All-purpose flour

1/2 cup

Breadcrumbs

1 cup, preferably italian-style

Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Vegetable oil

for frying

Marinara sauce

1 cup, store-bought or homemade

Instructions

1. Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks, each approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch wide.
2. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg until well mixed.
3. In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, Italian seasoning, and salt, mixing well.
4. Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg, ensuring it's completely coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
5. Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm them up.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Make sure there's enough oil to fully submerge the sticks.
7. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain proper oil temperature.
8. Once fried, remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
9. Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.