Fried Fresh Mozzarella

Mozzarella sticks are classic.  We all love them (don’t deny it). But there’s nothing like fresh mozzarella fried to a crispy golden brown right in your own home. An appetizer that is so simple, yet absolutely incredible. Don’t ever get frozen mozzarella sticks…get some fresh mozzarella and make these bad boys! Super crispy on the outside and ooey, gooey, cheesy on the inside.  Perfection.

Ingredients

8 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into ½ inch slices
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 egg
4 tbsp. flour, divided
2/3 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
Canola or vegetable oil
Marinara sauce

Directions:

Step 1: In one bowl whisk the buttermilk, egg, and two tablespoons of flour. In another bowl, combine the panko, remaining two tablespoons flour, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Dip the mozzarella in the egg mixture, coating both sides, then dip in the panko mixture. Be sure the mozzarella is completely covered on all sides with the panko mixture…press it in a bit with your fingers.

Step 3: Pour the oil in a frying pan to about ½ an inch. Turn to medium heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350 degrees), use a large spoon to carefully and gently place the mozzarella in the oil.  When the bottom turns a golden brown (this should only take about a minute), carefully and gently use tongs to flip the mozzarella. When the other side has browned, remove the mozzarella to a tray.  If you need to do this in batches, repeat this process with the remaining mozzarella.

Step 4: Serve the mozzarella with marinara sauce!