Crispy Mozzarella Cheese Roll

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread and Cheese:

   • Using a rolling pin, firmly flatten each slice of bread until thin and pliable.

   • Place one mozzarella stick at the edge of a bread slice and roll it up as tightly as possible.

2. Seal the Roll:

   • Gently press the outer edge of the bread to seal the roll securely. The natural moisture from the bread should help it stick. Set aside and repeat with the remaining bread and cheese.

3. Set Up Your Breading Station:

   • Get three shallow bowls or plates. Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, place the lightly beaten eggs. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs with the optional garlic powder and paprika.

4. Bread the Rolls:

   • Carefully coat each bread roll first in the flour, shaking off any excess.

   • Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully covered.

   • Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, complete coating. Place the finished rolls on a separate plate.

5. Fry to Perfection:

   • Pour oil into a pan to a depth of about ½ inch and heat over medium heat. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately (around 350°F / 175°C).

   • Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, carefully place the rolls in the hot oil.

   • Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

6. Serve:

   • Use tongs to remove the rolls from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

   • Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and deliciously melted. Enjoy with a side of marinara sauce or your preferred dip.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

• For a Secure Seal: If your bread isn’t sealing well, you can use a tiny dab of water or egg white on the edge to act as “glue.”

• Avoid Bursts: Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature. If it’s too hot, the outside will brown before the cheese melts; if it’s too cool, the rolls will absorb too much oil and may burst.

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the rolls up to the breading stage and freeze them on a baking sheet for 1 hour before transferring to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.