Breaded mozzarella.

Breaded Mozzarella: The Crispy Delight That Will Enchant Your Taste Buds

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 5-7 minutes
Total Time: 15-17 minutes
Servings: 4

Imagine a table full of friends, laughter, and good cheer, and now add to the scene a plate of crispy, steaming breaded mozzarella that melts in your mouth. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a snack or an appetizer that will win over any heart!

About the Recipe
Breaded mozzarella is a dish that combines the soft and creamy texture of cheese with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs, and its history is lost in the mists of time, being a traditional method of preparing cheese to enhance its flavor and add a touch of crunchiness. Over the years, this recipe has evolved and been adapted, becoming popular in various corners of the world, but its essence remains the same: a tasty dish that is easy to make and full of flavor.

Necessary Ingredients
- 300 g mozzarella (ideally of high quality for the best taste)
- 2 fresh eggs
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan (for an extra flavor boost)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 g durum wheat flour (for a crispy coating)
- 150 g breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a lighter texture)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil are excellent options)

Preparing Breaded Mozzarella
1. Preparing the mozzarella: Start by draining the mozzarella for 1-2 hours. You can use a strainer or a bowl with a paper towel to absorb excess water. This step is essential, as overly moist mozzarella will cause the breadcrumb coating to detach during frying.

2. Cutting the cheese: If you have 100 g round mozzarella, cut each piece in half. The slices should be about finger-thick to ensure even frying and perfect melting of the cheese.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a deep plate, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the grated parmesan and mix well. This mixture will contribute to a richer flavor and a better crust.

4. Preparing the dry ingredients: Place the flour in one plate and the breadcrumbs in another. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand, as the breading process needs to be quick to keep the cheese warm.

5. Breading the cheese: Take each slice of mozzarella and dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip the slice in the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumbs. Repeat the process twice – through the egg and then through the breadcrumbs – for a thicker and crunchier layer.

6. Frying: In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded mozzarella slices. Fry them on both sides for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, so each slice has enough space to fry evenly.

7. Draining the oil: When the mozzarella is ready, remove the slices onto a plate lined with paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

Serving
Breaded mozzarella is served warm, accompanied by flavorful sauces such as marinara sauce or a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill. You can add a fresh salad as a side dish, and a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Practical Tips
- To achieve an even crunchier crust, you can add spices to the breadcrumbs, such as garlic powder, paprika, or herbs.
- An interesting variation would be to replace mozzarella with goat cheese or feta for a delicious surprise.
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the breaded mozzarella instead of frying it. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 10-12 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use lactose-free mozzarella?
Yes, you can use lactose-free mozzarella for a lactose-intolerant friendly version.

2. What type of breadcrumbs is best?
Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a lighter crust, but you can also use classic breadcrumbs.

3. Can I prepare breaded mozzarella without eggs?
Yes, you can use a mixture of milk and flour or soy milk to make the cheese stick to the breadcrumbs.

4. What are the nutritional values of breaded mozzarella?
A serving of breaded mozzarella (about 100 g) has around 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying. Mozzarella is a good source of protein and calcium, and by adding parmesan, the nutritional intake increases.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones! Breaded mozzarella is more than just a recipe – it’s a culinary experience that will bring smiles and pleasant memories.