Crispy Fried Mozzarella Balls

Ingredients

• 250g (8.8 oz) mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized pieces 250g (8.8 oz) mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g) 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 2 large eggs, beaten 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g) 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 22g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.9g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Place the flour in a separate shallow dish.
3. 3.
   Dip each mozzarella piece into the flour, ensuring it is coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
4. 4.
   Next, dip the floured mozzarella into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. 5.
   Roll the mozzarella in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the cheese.
6. 6.
   Place the coated mozzarella balls on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the coating to set.
7. 7.
   In a deep saucepan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).
8. 8.
   Carefully drop the mozzarella balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
9. 9.
   Fry the mozzarella balls for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried mozzarella balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11. 11.
    Serve the Crispy Fried Mozzarella Balls immediately while they are still warm and gooey.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mozzarella cheese — Use fresh mozzarella for the best results. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before cutting it into bite-sized pieces to prevent the balls from becoming soggy.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• To make the mozzarella balls even more gooey, freeze the cheese pieces for 30 minutes before coating and frying.
• Serve the Crispy Fried Mozzarella Balls with a side of marinara sauce or a tangy tomato dip for a delicious combination of flavors.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the coated mozzarella balls in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Fried Mozzarella Balls as an appetizer or a party snack. They are best enjoyed when warm and gooey.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Crispy Fried Mozzarella Balls on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with a side of marinara sauce or tomato dip for dipping.