FRIED MOZZARELLA BITES

Fried Mozzarella Bites have become a staple in our family gatherings and game nights. It’s always a joy to see everyone’s eyes light up as I bring out these crispy, golden delights. The combination of gooey mozzarella encased in a crunchy, seasoned Panko crust, served with a side of marinara sauce or ranch, never fails to impress. It’s a simple recipe but the result is always a crowd-pleaser. After multiple requests from friends and family for the recipe, I’ve decided to share it so you can bring this joy to your gatherings as well.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package of string cheese
  • 2 cups Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup flour
  • Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut the string cheese into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Set Up the Coating Station: Pour milk into one bowl. In a plastic bag, add flour. In another plastic bag, mix Panko bread crumbs with Italian seasoning and parsley.
  3. Coat the Cheese: First, dip the cheese pieces in milk, then toss them in the flour bag. Shake well to coat. Dip the floured cheese back into the milk, then coat with the Panko mixture.
  4. Freeze: Arrange the coated cheese bites on a plate and freeze for at least 1 hour.
  5. Frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the bites until golden brown. Remove them before the cheese oozes out.
  6. Serve: Enjoy warm with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Nutrition Facts:

Each serving of Fried Mozzarella Bites contains approximately:

  • Calories: 200-250
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 8g (Note: These values can vary based on frying method and size of the bites.)

Bonus Tips:

  • Freezing is Key: Don’t skip the freezing step as it helps the cheese to not melt too quickly while frying.
  • Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get that perfect golden crust.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with a spicy marinara sauce to add an extra kick.

FAQ Section:

  1. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, but the texture might differ from frying.
  2. How long can I store them in the freezer? You can store the pre-coated cheese bites in the freezer for up to a month.
  3. Can I use different cheese? Yes, mozzarella sticks work best, but you can experiment with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
  4. Is it possible to make them gluten-free? Absolutely, just use gluten-free Panko and flour.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for a few minutes to retain the crunchiness.