Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella (Printer-Friendly Version)

Golden mozzarella sticks with a spicy Nashville hot glaze and crunchy double-breaded crust.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Cheese

01 - 1 lb block whole milk mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs, whisked
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 - 1 tsp cayenne pepper
07 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
09 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
10 - 1 tsp salt
11 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Frying Oil

12 - 4 cups (about 2 inches) avocado oil

→ Nashville Hot Glaze

13 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
14 - 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
15 - 1 tsp cayenne pepper
16 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
17 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
18 - 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
19 - 2 tbsp hot sauce with vinegar note
20 - 1/4 tsp salt

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Slice the mozzarella block into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick, ensuring even thickness for uniform melting and coating.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with combined panko, plain breadcrumbs, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
03 - Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip into the egg wash, followed by the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb dip for a second coat to enhance crispiness.
04 - Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up the coating and prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
05 - Heat avocado oil in a deep pot to 375°F using a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature ideal for frying.
06 - Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack for maximum crispness.
07 - Melt butter over low heat in a small saucepan, then whisk in brown sugar, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), hot sauce, and salt until smooth and fragrant.
08 - Quickly dip each hot fried mozzarella stick into the Nashville hot glaze, then arrange on a platter and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Freezing breaded sticks prior to frying prevents cheese from oozing out and produces a crisp exterior.
02 - Maintain oil temperature at 375°F for optimal frying texture and even cooking.
03 - Adjust cayenne and hot sauce levels in the glaze to customize heat intensity.

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