Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch thick sticks
- 8 slices bacon, cut into thirds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Special Equipment Needed:
- Deep-fryer or large pot
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep-fryer or pot to 375°F.
2. Place the flour in a shallow bowl.
3. Place the eggs in a separate shallow bowl.
4. In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Dip each mozzarella stick in the flour, then the eggs, and then the panko mixture.
6. Wrap each mozzarella stick with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
7. Fry the mozzarella sticks in the preheated oil for 3-4 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil with tongs and place on paper towels to drain.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 532
Fat: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 29 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the mozzarella cheese, you can substitute cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese of your choice.
- For the bacon, you can use turkey bacon or any other type of bacon.
- For the panko bread crumbs, you can use regular bread crumbs.
Variations:
- For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the panko bread crumb mixture.
- For a cheesy version, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the panko bread crumb mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to preheat the oil to the correct temperature before adding the mozzarella sticks.
- Make sure to secure the bacon with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling.
- Be careful when handling the hot oil.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cooked mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the mozzarella sticks in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the mozzarella sticks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine or an ice cold beer.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of french fries, coleslaw, or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the bacon is not crispy enough, increase the cooking time.
- If the cheese is not melted, increase the cooking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wear protective gloves when handling the hot oil.
- Make sure to keep the oil at the correct temperature to prevent it from burning.
Food History:
Mozzarella sticks are believed to have originated in Italy in the late 19th century. They were first served as an appetizer in Italian restaurants in the United States in the 1970s.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory and smoky flavor from the bacon, and a creamy and cheesy flavor from the mozzarella cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a snack.
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