How to make provolone cheese sticks that will make your mouth water
What To Know
- Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can shallow fry the cheese sticks in a large skillet.
- Store the cooked cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving crispy, golden-brown cheese sticks with a deliciously gooey center? Look no further than this comprehensive guide on how to make provolone cheese sticks at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can enjoy this delectable treat in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound provolone cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Flour
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will create a flavorful coating for your cheese sticks.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs until light and fluffy. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese sticks.
3. Coat the Cheese Sticks
First, dip each provolone stick into the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the cheese stick into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the cheese stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Refrigerate for Firmness
Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This step helps firm up the coating and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.
5. Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
6. Fry the Cheese Sticks
Carefully place the cheese sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the cheese sticks from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the provolone cheese sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Tips for Perfection
- Use high-quality provolone cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can shallow fry the cheese sticks in a large skillet.
- To make the cheese sticks even crispier, double-coat them by repeating steps 2 and 3.
- Serve the cheese sticks with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent the cheese from melting out of the sticks?
- Ensure the cheese sticks are cold before frying.
- Use a thick coating of breadcrumbs to create a barrier.
- Fry the cheese sticks in hot oil for a short amount of time.
Can I bake the cheese sticks instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake the cheese sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
How long can I store the cheese sticks?
- Store the cooked cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
