Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Instructions

1. Cut your unwrapped string cheese sticks in half to create the perfect bite-sized appetizer. Place them neatly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Place the flour in your first bowl and whisk the eggs with milk in the second. Combine the Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and spices in the third bowl.
3. Roll each piece of cheese in the flour until completely covered. Tap it gently against the bowl to shake off any excess powder.
4. Submerge the floured stick into the egg mixture. Make sure there are absolutely no dry white spots left.
5. Press the stick firmly into the breadcrumb bowl so the crumb mixture adheres nicely. The panko will give it a fantastic texture.
6. Dip the coated stick back into the egg wash and then roll it in the breadcrumbs one more time. This double layer is the ultimate secret to keeping the cheese inside. Do not rush this step. Press the breadcrumbs in firmly with your fingers so the coating feels dense like wet sand.
7. Place all the breaded sticks onto your baking sheet and freeze them for at least two hours. They need to feel rock solid before frying.
8. Pour your vegetable oil into a heavy pot and heat it to exactly 365 degrees Fahrenheit. You will know it is ready when a loose breadcrumb sizzles gently upon hitting the surface.
9. Carefully lower the frozen sticks into the hot oil in small batches of three or four. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes until they are gorgeously golden and crispy.
10. Remove the sticks with a slotted spoon and drain them on a wire rack. Let them sit for two minutes so the molten center settles before taking a bite.