Dairy / 4-6 Servings
This is the type of dish you’ll have a very hard time sharing. It almost never even makes it to the table. To say it’s irresistible is an understatement. If you like mozzarella sticks, you’ll definitely love this homemade version, which is, if I do say so myself, 100 times better. The hot honey takes it over the top. You’ll be shocked by how easy it is to make this spectacular dairy appetizer!
- 1 (2-pound) block mozzarella cheese, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups panko crumbs
- Oil, for frying
Hot Honey
- ½ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce, such as Huy Fong (see note)
Directions:
- In a shallow plate, combine flour, salt and pepper. In a bowl, lightly beat eggs. Place panko crumbs into a second plate.
- Working in batches, dredge cheese cubes in flour, then into eggs, and finally into crumbs, making sure cubes are very well coated.
- Add oil to a frying pan; heat over medium heat. In batches, fry cheese bites for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer bites to a wire rack.
Prepare the hot honey:
- In a small bowl or cup, combine honey with chili garlic sauce. Microwave for 30 seconds; stir well to combine.
Drizzle hot honey on mozzarella cheese bites. Serve immediately.
Note: If unable to find chili garlic sauce, which is sold in most grocery stores in the Asian aisle, substitute with sriracha.
Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Do not freeze fried Mozzarella Bites; breaded cheese can be frozen and fried straight from the freezer.
