Appetizer > Italian > Baked > Mozzarella

Cracker-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
-1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-2 large eggs
-2 tablespoons water
-1 1/2 cups finely crushed buttery round crackers
-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
-12 ounces mozzarella cheese sticks
-Vegetable oil, for frying

Special Equipment Needed:
-Deep-fry thermometer
-Large, heavy-bottomed pot

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and water until smooth.
2. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cheese stick in the flour mixture, then in the cracker crumb mixture, coating completely. Place on a plate.
4. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat to 350°F (177°C).
5. Working in batches, carefully add the cheese sticks to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
6. Transfer the cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve warm.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (177°C)
Serving Size: 12 ounces

Nutritional Information: Not available

Substitutions for Ingredients
-For the all-purpose flour, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour.
-For the buttery round crackers, you can use any type of cracker.
-For the mozzarella cheese sticks, you can use any type of cheese.

Variations:
-For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cracker crumb mixture.
-For a cheesy version, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the cracker crumb mixture.

Tips and Tricks:
-Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the cheese sticks.
-Be sure to work in batches when frying the cheese sticks.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.

Pairings:
Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of French fries or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cheese sticks are not golden brown after frying, increase the heat of the oil.

Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to use caution when working with hot oil.

Food History:
Mozzarella sticks are believed to have originated in Italy in the late 1800s.

Flavor Profiles:
These mozzarella sticks have a savory flavor with a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a snack.

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Taste: Crispy, Cheesy, Savory, Crunchy