I know what you're thinking; mozzarella sticks don't have any nuts in them. While this is correct, mozzarella sticks and other fried foods pose a risk for those with food allergies. If you have an allergy, you should really avoid fried foods at restaurants for two reasons:
1.) They may fry with peanut oil, or a combination of oils.
2.) They may fry other items, i.e. coconut shrimp, in the same fryer.
Because of these risks, I tend to steer clear of fried foods when I'm out to eat at a restaurant. When in the safety of my own home, however, I can cook up some of my favorites without the risk of cross-contamination.
Disclaimer: When I say "safety", I mean that you should remove all small children and anything plastic out of the kitchen before attempting this. The photo above is from the second attempt at making these delicious sticks. My first attempt ended in smoke and melting utensils.
Note: Oil has a much higher boiling point than water...do not stand there and wait for it to boil, because it won't.
Ingredients (makes 8 sticks):
2 Eggs, beaten
1/4 Cup water
1 1/2 Cups Italian seasoned Panko
1/2 Teaspoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 Package of Mozzarella Sticks (16 count)
1 Quart oil for frying
1/3 Cup cornstarch
2/3 Cup all-purpose flour
In a small bowl, beat the eggs and then add in the water. In a medium bowl, mix together the Panko, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. In third bowl, mix together the flour and cornstarch. In a large saucepan, heat the oil to 365 degrees (medium heat). Take your first mozzarella stick and dip it in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, then the Panko mixture. For extra crispiness, re-dip into the egg mixture, and then the Panko mixture again. Lay mozzarella stick in the oil and let it cook until golden brown. Using a METAL utensil, take mozzarella stick out of the oil and allow it to dry on a paper towel. Repeat for the remaining mozzarella sticks, serve with your favorite tomato sauce, and enjoy!
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