Panko Mozzarella Sticks

Yum!!! Is there anyone that doesn't like deep fried, stringy, gooey, mozzarella sticks? I didn't think so!

Three months ago, I didn't even know what Panko bread crumbs were. Now I think I've used them 3 times in the last month alone. What a great discovery!

These little guys were really good. They would make a great appetizer at a party but I served them along with the Easy Cheesesteaks the other night.

Panko Mozzarella Sticks
Source: The Pioneer Woman

16 pieces String Cheese, Removed From Wrappers
½ c. Flour
2 Eggs
3 T. Milk
2 c. Panko Bread Crumbs
1 T. Dried Parsley Flakes
Canola Oil, For Frying
Marinara Sauce, For Dipping

Slice string cheese pieces in half, for a total of 32 pieces. Place flour in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk. In another separate bowl, combine panko bread crumbs with parsley flakes.

TO ASSEMBLE: One by one, roll mozzarella sticks in flour, then dunk in egg/milk mixture, then place in panko crumbs. Use your hand to sweep crumbs all over the mozzarella stick. Gently remove and place on a tray or cookie sheet. Repeat until all mozzarella sticks are coated.

***Place tray in freezer for 20 to 30 minutes to flash freeze.***

TO COOK: Heat 1 1/2 inches canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add mozzarella sticks 8 at a time. Watch closely and turn over to evenly brown, cooking less than 2 minutes. Do not allow cheese to bubble and leak. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.