Perfect Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks with Italian Breadcrumbs
There’s nothing quite like biting into crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks! Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a snack for the family, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Using our gluten-free Italian breadcrumbs, you’ll achieve the perfect crunch every time. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 200g Treat Me Gluten Free Italian Breadcrumbs
- 100g gluten-free all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 2 large eggs (or substitute—see below for egg-free options)
- Salt to taste
- you can add any extra spices such as garlic powder
- 250g mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Mozzarella
- Cut the mozzarella into sticks, about 1 cm thick and 8 cm long.
- Place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to ensure they don’t melt during frying.
- Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Gluten-free flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs (or your egg-free substitute)
- Bowl 3: TMGF Italian Breadcrumbs mixed with salt and any other spices
- Coat the Mozzarella
- Dip each mozzarella stick in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, dip it into the egg or substitute, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating to lock in the cheese.
- Freeze Again
- Place the coated sticks back into the freezer for 1 hour. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
- Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil in a deep pan.
- Fry the sticks in small batches for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Air-Frying Tips
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly Spray with Oil: After coating the mozzarella sticks, spray them lightly with cooking oil to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Cook in Small Batches: Place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Overcrowding will result in uneven cooking.
- Air-Fry Time: Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check frequently to ensure the cheese doesn’t start leaking.
Baking Tips
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 220°C.
- Line the Baking Tray: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Spray with Oil: Just like with air-frying, lightly spray the coated mozzarella sticks with cooking oil for better browning.
- Bake Time: Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping. For extra crunch, place them under the broiler for the last minute or two.
Tips:
Double Coating for Better Results
For both air-frying and baking, ensure the mozzarella sticks have a thick, double layer of coating. This helps keep the cheese inside while achieving a satisfying crunch.
Both methods are delicious alternatives that reduce the need for deep frying while still giving you a crispy, golden exterior and gooey mozzarella center. Enjoy!
Prevent Melting
- Freezing the mozzarella sticks before frying is nonnegotiable. It ensures the cheese stays firm while the coating crisps up.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 180°C. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Egg-Free Coating Substitute
If you or your loved ones have an egg allergy, replace the beaten eggs with:
- A mixture of 2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water
- Buttermilk
- A paste of gluten-free flour and water
Enjoy these crispy mozzarella sticks with your favorite dips like marinara sauce or garlic aioli.
Want to try more flavors? Explore our other gluten-free breadcrumbs, including:
- Herbs & Spices Breadcrumbs
- Plain Breadcrumbs
- Or you can enjoy the 3 flavours with a great offer. Click here!
Treat your family to these gluten-free delights today! Share your creations with us on social media. What will you try next? ????
