12 ounces low moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into pieces 3-inch x ¾ inch (or 12 oz string cheese cut in half)
Homemade marinara, for dipping
1 quart vegetable oil
Instructions
Cut 12 oz low-moisture mozzarella into 3-4 inch long, 1/2-3/4 inch thick sticks. Arrange on a plate or baking sheet.
Prepare three shallow dishes: 1) Combine ¾ cup flour, 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp black pepper. 2) Whisk 2 eggs. 3) Combine 2 cups Panko and 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Arrange dishes in order: flour, egg, Panko.
Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour mix, tapping off excess. Dip in egg wash, letting excess drip. Coat thoroughly in the Panko mix, pressing firmly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring sticks do not touch.
Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for 30-60 minutes until firm. This helps prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
Dip each partially frozen stick back into the egg wash, then coat again firmly in the Panko mix, paying attention to the ends. Return sticks to the freezer for 2-4 hours, or until rock solid. They can be frozen overnight or for several weeks in an airtight bag.
Heat 1 quart vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Line a plate or wire rack with paper towels for draining.
Carefully lower 3-4 frozen mozzarella sticks into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot. Remove with tongs and place on the prepared paper towel-lined plate to drain. Allow oil to return to temperature between batches.
Serve immediately with warm homemade marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired. Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer for best results (avoid microwave).