Nashville Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Mozzarella Sticks

01 - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 3 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 lb whole milk mozzarella, cut into thick rectangles
05 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
06 - ½ tsp onion powder
07 - ½ tsp garlic powder
08 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1 tsp cayenne pepper
10 - Salt and black pepper, to your liking
11 - Avocado oil for frying

→ Nashville Hot Glaze

12 - ½ cup melted unsalted butter
13 - 2 tbsp sweet brown sugar
14 - 2 tbsp cayenne powder (more or less for taste)
15 - 2-3 tbsp your favorite hot sauce
16 - ½ tsp garlic powder
17 - 1 tsp smoky paprika
18 - ½ tsp chili powder, optional
19 - Pinch of salt

# Instructions:

01 - Cut the mozzarella block into thick pieces about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
02 - Set up three bowls: one for flour, another for the whisked eggs, and the last for a breadcrumb mix (panko, plain breadcrumbs, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
03 - Roll each cheese stick in the flour, coat it in egg, and cover it with breadcrumbs. Dip them again in eggs and breadcrumbs for an extra layer. Place the breaded sticks on a tray.
04 - Put the finished sticks in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes so the coating stays firm.
05 - Heat avocado oil in a deep skillet to 375°F (190°C). Fry the sticks until golden and crispy, around 1-2 minutes. Let them drain on a rack.
06 - In a small pan, melt butter. Whisk in cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), hot sauce, and salt until smooth.
07 - Once fried, toss the mozzarella sticks in the hot glaze for an even coat. Serve them right away with ranch or blue cheese dressing.