Mozzarella Sticks with Chilli Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
12 oz (340g) mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Chilli Tomato Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
Set up a breading station: place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all sticks.
Chill the coated mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Prepare the Chilli Tomato Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, chilli flakes, and dried basil. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Serve:
Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with the chilli tomato sauce for dipping.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4
