Fried Mozzarella Discs

Skip the additives and preservatives of store-bought mozzarella sticks by making your own at home! These homemade mozzarella discs are not only fresher, but they also boast a wonderful balance of creaminess on the inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside. For a great pairing, serve with a side of marinara sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 (8oz) packages of fresh mozzarella, pre-sliced

• 1 cup flour

• 2 tsps kosher or sea salt

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp water

• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs

Instructions:

Preparation

1. Prepare the Mozzarella

   • Separate mozzarella discs from the package and place them on a plate.

2. Whisk the Eggs

   • In a bowl, whisk eggs with 1 teaspoon of water until the whites are fully incorporated (about 80 strokes).

3. Set Up the Dredging Station

   • On a plate, mix flour with 1 tsp of salt.

   • Place the whisked eggs in a bowl next to the flour.

   • Add 1 tsp of salt to Panko breadcrumbs and mix, place on a separate plate and place it next to the eggs.

4. Bread the Mozzarella

   • Press each mozzarella disc firmly into the flour, coating both sides. Shake off any excess.

   • Dip the floured mozzarella into the egg mixture, coating both sides.

   • Place the mozzarella into the Panko breadcrumbs and scoop some on top.

   • Firmly press the breadcrumbs onto the mozzarella to ensure a complete coating.

   • Transfer the breaded mozzarella onto a parchment-lined sheet pan.

   • Repeat until all mozzarella discs are breaded.

5. Freeze

   • Place the sheet pan in the freezer for at least 3 hours, or until the mozzarella is completely frozen.

   • Once frozen, transfer the mozzarella to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months.

Cooking

1. Heat the Oil

   • Pour about 1 inch of oil into a pan and heat to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry the Mozzarella

   • Carefully place the frozen mozzarella discs into the hot oil.

   • Fry until golden brown on the bottom, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

3. Serve

   • Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.

   • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

👉 Tip: You can add 1/2 tsp each of dried basil, granulated garlic and granulated onion to your panko breadcrumbs for added flavor.