Gluten Free Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

To make gluten-free mozzarella sticks, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese works great)
• 1 cup gluten-free flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (you can use store-bought or make your own by grinding gluten-free bread)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Begin by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks and cutting them in half. This will give you 24 bite-sized sticks, which are easier to manage and fry evenly.
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station: Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the gluten-free flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the gluten-free breadcrumbs with the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This combination of herbs and spices will give your mozzarella sticks a burst of flavor in every bite.
3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Begin by rolling each mozzarella stick in the gluten-free flour, ensuring it is completely coated. This step is crucial as it helps the egg mixture adhere better. Next, dip the flour-coated mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps, creating a double coating.
4. Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the sticks are coated, transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the sticks freeze for at least 1-2 hours. Freezing is essential to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying, ensuring the sticks remain intact with a perfectly melted center.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of around 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is hot enough. Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each stick for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the gluten-free mozzarella sticks hot, with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey, melted cheese inside is absolutely irresistible.

Tips for Success

• Double Coating: For an extra crunchy texture, consider double-coating the mozzarella sticks by dipping them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice.
• Freezing: Don’t skip the freezing step! It’s key to achieving the perfect balance of melted cheese inside and a crispy coating outside.
• Breadcrumb Options: If you prefer a lighter texture, try using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, which will result in an airier, crispier bite.

Variations

• Spicy Mozzarella Sticks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Cheese: Experiment with different herbs in the breadcrumb mixture, such as thyme, rosemary, or even a hint of smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile.

Gluten-free mozzarella sticks are a fun and delicious snack that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. With a little preparation and the right ingredients, you can create a batch of these cheesy, crunchy treats that are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, indulge in this gluten-free version of a classic favorite, and experience the joy of homemade mozzarella sticks that are every bit as satisfying as their gluten-filled counterparts.