Deep-Frying Cheese Sticks: How Long Should You Fry?

Deep-fried cheese sticks are a popular snack and appetizer, but how long should you fry them for? The answer depends on the oil temperature and the number of cheese sticks being fried. When frying cheese sticks, it's important to prevent the cheese from leaking out and achieve a golden-brown and crispy exterior. The standard breading procedure involves dipping the cheese sticks in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs, and double-breading is recommended to prevent cheese leakage. Frying times vary from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, with the oil temperature ranging from 350°F to 375°F. Freezing the cheese sticks before frying is a useful tip to ensure even cooking and prevent cheese melting too quickly.

The importance of freezing cheese sticks before frying

Mozzarella sticks are a delicious snack, but they can be tricky to get right. Freezing your cheese sticks before frying is an essential step in the cooking process and has several benefits. Not only does it improve the taste and texture of the final product, but it also helps to ensure the structural integrity of the cheese sticks, preventing them from dissolving or exploding during cooking.

Preventing Cheese Leakage

Freezing cheese sticks before frying helps to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. Cheese is a delicate food that needs to be handled with care when heated. By freezing the cheese sticks beforehand, the cheese is given time to firm up, which helps to retain its form when exposed to high temperatures. This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out of the breadcrumb coating.

Even Cooking

Freezing cheese sticks also helps to ensure even cooking. The freezing process allows the cheese to get super cold before frying, which gives the outer shell a chance to properly brown and crisp before the cheese gets overcooked. This results in a golden and crispy exterior with a gooey, melted interior—the ideal texture for a cheese stick.

Improved Texture and Taste

Freezing cheese sticks can also improve their texture and taste. The freezing process helps to amplify the spices in the breadcrumb batter, resulting in a richer flavour. Additionally, freezing allows the breading to adhere better to the cheese, reducing the risk of it falling off during frying. This leads to a thicker, crispier coating that enhances the overall taste and texture of the cheese sticks.

Convenience

Freezing cheese sticks is also convenient, as it allows you to prepare a large batch in advance and fry them in small batches whenever you crave them. Frozen cheese sticks can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making them an excellent make-ahead snack or appetizer.

In conclusion, freezing cheese sticks before frying is crucial for achieving the desired texture, taste, and structural integrity of this beloved snack. By following this simple step, you can ensure your cheese sticks turn out golden, crispy, and gooey—the perfect combination for a delicious treat.

How to prevent cheese from leaking out

To prevent cheese from leaking out of your fried cheese sticks, there are a few methods you can try.

Firstly, it's important to follow the correct breading procedure. This involves a three-bowl process with flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. The cheese sticks are first dredged in flour, then dipped in the egg wash, and finally coated in breadcrumbs. After dipping in breadcrumbs, return the cheese sticks to the egg wash and then back into the breadcrumbs for a second coating. This double-thick layer will help prevent the cheese from melting out and leaking into the oil. It also gives you more of that delicious fried, crunchy texture.

Another tip is to use the wet-hand, dry-hand method when breading. Use one hand for all the dry ingredients (flour and breadcrumbs) and the other hand for the egg wash. This will minimise clumping on your fingers and make the process easier.

Additionally, make sure your cheese sticks are cut into the right size. For fried cheese sticks, the cheese should be cut into sticks about 1/4" to 1/2" thick. If the cheese sticks are too thick, the breading may not be able to contain the melted cheese.

You can also try freezing the cheese before breading and frying. This will slow down the melting process, giving the breading more time to cook and crisp up before the cheese starts to leak out.

Finally, fry your cheese sticks at the right temperature. A temperature of around 350°F (177°C) is recommended. This will allow the outside to become golden brown and crispy without burning, while the cheese inside melts to the perfect gooey consistency.

The best oils for frying cheese sticks

Frying cheese sticks is a delicate process that requires the right oil to avoid a mess and get the best results. The ideal oil for frying cheese sticks should have a high smoke point and be neutral-flavoured. Here are some of the best options:

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is a popular choice for deep frying due to its high smoke point of about 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It is similar to vegetable oil and can be used for various dishes, making it a versatile option.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a blend of oils with a high smoke point ranging from 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a multipurpose oil suitable for all types of frying and foods, making it an excellent choice for frying cheese sticks. Its neutral flavour also deepens the taste of the food being fried.

Canola Oil

Canola oil is a versatile, neutral-flavoured oil with a smoke point of about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It is suitable for all types of frying methods and can also be used for roasting vegetables or making dressings. Its versatility and relatively high smoke point make it a good option for frying cheese sticks.

Corn Oil

Corn oil, a type of vegetable oil, has a high smoke point of around 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It is suitable for deep frying and shallow frying and is inexpensive. Its neutral flavour makes it ideal for frying cheese sticks as it will not impart any additional taste to the dish.

Safflower Oil

Safflower oil is a refined oil with a high smoke point, making it suitable for deep frying. It is one of the most stable oils and is often recommended for deep-fried foods.

When choosing an oil for frying cheese sticks, it is important to consider the smoke point and flavour of the oil. Oils with high smoke points are better suited for deep frying, as they can withstand higher temperatures without burning. Neutral-flavoured oils are also preferable as they will not overpower the taste of the cheese sticks.

How to reheat cheese sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a delicious snack, but what happens when you have leftovers? Here is a guide on how to reheat cheese sticks so you can enjoy them again!

Using an Oven

The oven is the best way to reheat your cheese sticks and regain that crispy texture. Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet and pop them into an oven preheated to 350°F. It should take around 10 minutes for them to heat through. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as you don't want the cheese to melt too much or the coating to burn.

Using a Microwave

Although not recommended, you can use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Place the cheese sticks on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in short bursts, checking frequently. The microwave can cause the cheese to melt unevenly, so it's important to go slow and use a lower power setting if possible.

Using a Fryer

If you want to recreate that deep-fried goodness, you can reheat your cheese sticks in a fryer. Heat your oil to around 350°F and carefully place the cheese sticks in for a few minutes. This method will give you a crispy exterior again, but be careful not to overheat the oil, as it can cause the cheese to melt and leak out.

Storing Cheese Sticks

If you're planning to reheat your cheese sticks, it's important to store them properly. They can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Line the container with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. When you're ready to reheat them, simply follow the instructions above for your desired method.

The best sauces to pair with cheese sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a delicious snack, but they can be taken to the next level with the right dipping sauce. While some may opt for the classic marinara sauce, there are plenty of other options to explore. From tangy to spicy, and sweet to savoury, there is a dipping sauce to suit every palate.

Spicy and Tangy

If you like a bit of spice, a tangy barbecue sauce can add a smoky, slightly sweet kick to your mozzarella sticks. Alternatively, try a chipotle sauce made from chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Fans of spicy food will also enjoy the classic Buffalo sauce, made with hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar. For a more subtle spice, a garlic aioli is a great option, and can be made by mixing mayo, olive oil, herbs, lemon, and roasted garlic or garlic powder.

Sweet and Savoury

Honey mustard is a classic combination of sweet and tangy, and pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey cheese sticks. For a more unique option, try a raspberry or blackberry sauce, or even a raspberry habanero sauce for an extra kick. A balsamic glaze also offers a sweet and tangy flavour profile that will complement the cheese.

Savoury

For a more savoury option, pesto is a great choice. A classic basil pesto made with pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil is a versatile option that pairs well with mozzarella. For something a little different, try a sundried tomato pesto, or a pistou, which is similar to pesto but made with pistachios. If you're a fan of mustard, a Bavarian mustard can add a robust, complex flavour to your cheese sticks, but be sure to pair it with a sharp, hard cheese like cheddar or Manchego Viejo to balance the flavours.

Unique Combinations

Some more unusual pairings include salsa, which offers a tangy contrast to the rich cheese, or even a fruity option like mango salsa or chutney. Ranch dressing is another popular choice, adding a cool, creamy element to the warm, indulgent cheese sticks.

So, whether you're a fan of spice, sweetness, or something more savoury, there's a dipping sauce to suit every taste when it comes to cheese sticks. Get creative, and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions