Crispy Mozzarella Sticks with Spicy Chilli Tomato Sauce Recipe
Crispy golden mozzarella sticks coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, fried to perfection and served with a spicy chili tomato sauce for dipping. This appetizer is a delightful combination of gooey melted cheese and tangy, flavorful sauce that adds a fiery kick.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Mozzarella Sticks
- 12 mozzarella sticks (about 28g each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
Chili Tomato Sauce
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
- Prepare the mozzarella sticks: Pat the mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Coat with flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Roll each mozzarella stick in the flour until fully coated, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in egg wash: Beat the eggs in a bowl. Dip each floured mozzarella stick into the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely covered.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Transfer the breadcrumbs to another shallow dish. Roll each egg-coated mozzarella stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. For extra crispiness and to prevent cheese from leaking, dip the sticks again in the egg and breadcrumb layers for a double coat if desired. Chill coated sticks in the freezer for 30 minutes before frying to maintain shape.
- Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot, enough to submerge the mozzarella sticks entirely. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry mozzarella sticks: Carefully place the coated mozzarella sticks into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make chili tomato sauce: While frying, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chili, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Cook down for 8-10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the hot mozzarella sticks alongside a bowl of the warm chili tomato sauce. Enjoy immediately while the cheese is gooey and the crust is crunchy.
Notes
- Double coating the mozzarella sticks helps prevent cheese leakage while frying.
- Freezing coated sticks before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents melting too quickly.
- Adjust the amount of chili in the sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese sticks for best melting texture.
- Oil temperature is critical; too low and sticks will absorb oil and be greasy, too high and coating may burn before cheese melts.
Keywords: mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer, chili tomato sauce, crispy mozzarella, snack, Italian-American
