Crispy Homemade Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites

Crispy Homemade Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are the ultimate snack for cheese lovers! These golden, crunchy, and gooey cheese bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, party snack, or indulgent treat. The mozzarella cheese inside becomes soft and melty, while the breadcrumb coating crisps up beautifully, creating the ideal balance of textures. This recipe is easy to make, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering, cheesy delight. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect crispy homemade mozzarella cheese bites!

Ingredients:

• 250g mozzarella cheese (block or string cheese)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparation:

Step 1:
Start by cutting the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes. If you’re using string cheese, cut each piece into three or four sections, depending on your preferred bite size.

Step 2:
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 3:
Dip each piece of mozzarella cheese into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the cheese.

Step 4:
Once all cheese bites are breaded, place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the coating set and prevents it from falling off during frying.

Step 5:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 180°C/350°F), fry the cheese bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Variation:

• Spicy Mozzarella Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chilli flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Mozzarella Bites: Experiment with different herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley in the breadcrumb mixture to give the bites a fragrant, herby twist.
• Cheese Blend: Mix in a bit of cheddar or parmesan with the mozzarella for a richer flavour and added texture.

Cooking Note:

• Be careful not to overcook the cheese bites. The mozzarella inside should be gooey and melted, not fully liquid. If the oil is too hot, it can cause the cheese to leak out, so be sure to maintain the right temperature.
• If you don’t want to deep fry, you can also bake these cheese bites in the oven. Arrange them on a baking tray, spray with a little oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these crispy mozzarella cheese bites with a tangy marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.
• These bites also make a great party platter when served with other finger foods like chicken wings or sliders.

Tips:

• If you’re preparing these ahead of time, you can freeze the breaded cheese bites before frying. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a ziplock bag for storage. When you’re ready to fry, no need to thaw – just fry directly from the freezer for about 4-5 minutes.
• For extra crunch, consider double-coating the cheese bites by dipping them in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then repeating the process for a thicker coating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 14g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

FAQs:

Q1: Can I bake these mozzarella bites instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Arrange the breaded cheese bites on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Q2: How do I store leftover mozzarella bites?
Store leftover mozzarella bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone. Keep in mind that the texture and melting properties might differ slightly.

Conclusion:

These Crispy Homemade Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are a fantastic treat that delivers on both taste and texture. With their crunchy exterior and gooey cheese filling, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re easy to make and loved by everyone. So go ahead, try this simple yet delicious recipe, and enjoy your homemade cheesy bites that everyone will adore!