Randy Chandler
Frozen cheese sticks are a popular snack and appetizer, but which ones are the best? Mozzarella sticks are a well-loved classic, and many brands offer their own spin on the snack. Farm Rich's mozzarella sticks are a popular choice, with many praising their flavour and texture. However, some have criticised the brand for its subpar cheese pull. Market Pantry's mozzarella sticks have also received mixed reviews, with some praising their salty flavour and others criticising their cheap-tasting cheese. TGI Friday's mozzarella sticks have been described as gooey and stringy with a great cheese pull, but their breadcrumbs have been called underwhelming. With so many options available, it's hard to choose the best frozen cheese sticks, but it's safe to say that a good cheese pull and crispy breading are must-haves.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Milky, creamy, fatty, bold, salty, juicy, gooey, stringy, bland, cheap |
| Breading | Crispy, crunchy, salty, seasoned, ultra-herby, greasy, soft, limp |
| Coating | Dry and flaky, thick |
| Sauce | Marinara, mustard, BBQ |
| Cheese pull | Good, ample, elegant, subpar |
| Brand | Farm Rich, Trader Joe's, TGI Friday's, Petite Cuisine, Market Pantry, Budweiser, Feel Good Foods |
| Preparation | Baked, fried |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella sticks with the best cheese pull
Mozzarella sticks are a delicious snack, but what's the best way to get that perfect cheese pull? Here are some tips and tricks to achieve that gooey, stretchy cheese pull of your dreams.
Choosing the Right Cheese
The type of cheese you use is crucial. Opt for low-moisture mozzarella cheese or whole milk mozzarella for the best flavour and texture. Block mozzarella is preferred over pre-made string cheese as it yields more sticks and provides a better flavour. However, if you're short on time, string cheese is a convenient alternative.
Breading Technique
The breading technique plays a significant role in achieving a good cheese pull. Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. Panko has more texture than standard breadcrumbs, ensuring a crunchier exterior. Crush the panko slightly before adding seasonings to ensure an even coating.
Dredging and Freezing
Create a dredge by whisking eggs and adding flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dip the cheese sticks first into the flour, then the eggs, and finally into the panko mixture. Repeat the process for each stick, then freeze them for at least an hour. Freezing is essential to prevent the cheese from melting and leaking out during frying.
Frying
Use a neutral cooking oil like vegetable, canola, corn, or peanut oil. Heat the oil to 350°F and fry the mozzarella sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they are golden brown and crisp.
Serving
Serve your mozzarella sticks warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the perfect cheese pull and indulge in the stretchy, gooey cheese!
Now you know the secrets to achieving the best cheese pull with your mozzarella sticks. Impress your family and friends with this delicious snack, and don't forget to enjoy the fruits of your labour!
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Gluten-free and vegan options
While there are plenty of frozen cheese sticks available on the market, there is a notable lack of vegan options. However, there are a few recipes for making your own vegan cheese sticks at home. One recipe suggests using Miyoko's Mozzarella Cheese, while another recommends Chao Cheese. Both recipes involve creating a breading station with almond milk batter, a bowl of flour, and a bowl of breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. The cheese sticks can then be frozen before frying or baking.
For gluten-free options, there are a few brands that offer frozen gluten-free cheese sticks, such as Feel Good Foods, which uses rice flour and tapioca starch breading. Market Pantry's gluten-free mozzarella sticks also received positive reviews for their crunchy breading and salty flavor, although the cheese itself tasted a bit like string cheese. Members Mark offers another gluten-free option with extra crispy breading, although the cheese lacks a strong cheese pull.
If you're looking for a vegan option, you may have better luck with homemade recipes, as there don't appear to be any widely available frozen vegan cheese sticks on the market at the moment. However, for gluten-free options, there are a few brands, like Feel Good Foods and Market Pantry, that offer frozen cheese sticks that fit the bill.
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Breaded vs non-breaded
When it comes to cheese sticks, there are two main types: breaded and non-breaded. Both have their own unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:
Breaded Cheese Sticks:
Breaded cheese sticks are the classic choice for those who crave that signature crunchy texture and indulgent flavour. The breading, typically made from a combination of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, provides a crispy exterior that beautifully contrasts the gooey, melted cheese inside. This breading process helps to seal in the cheese, preventing it from leaking out during cooking. Breaded cheese sticks are usually deep-fried, enhancing the crispy texture and adding to the overall indulgent experience. However, it's important to note that the frying process can contribute to a higher calorie and fat content, making portion sizes important for a balanced snack.
Non-Breaded Cheese Sticks:
Non-breaded cheese sticks, also known as bread cheese or "Juustoleipa," offer a unique alternative for those seeking a healthier option. This variety originates from Finland and other parts of northern Europe and is made from a firm cheese that is baked to remove moisture, resulting in a longer shelf life. Unlike breaded cheese sticks, non-breaded cheese sticks do not require a coating of breadcrumbs and egg wash, making them a grain-free option. When cooked, this type of cheese develops a crispy, golden-brown exterior without the need for deep frying in unhealthy oils. The absence of breading allows the pure flavour of the cheese to shine through, making it a favourite among those who prefer a simpler, less greasy snack.
Both breaded and non-breaded cheese sticks have their merits, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. Breaded cheese sticks offer that classic, indulgent experience with a crunchy exterior and molten cheese interior. On the other hand, non-breaded cheese sticks provide a healthier, grain-free alternative with a pure cheese flavour and a unique, crispy texture.
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Best brands for frozen cheese sticks
When it comes to frozen cheese sticks, mozzarella is the most popular variety. Here are some of the best brands for frozen mozzarella sticks:
Farm Rich
Farm Rich's mozzarella sticks are widely available and are considered a classic, reliable option. They are made with 100% real mozzarella cheese and perfectly seasoned breading. The cheese is soft and juicy, and the sticks have a great crunchy exterior and gooey interior. They also have a good cheese pull, although some say it is subpar compared to other brands. They can be cooked in the oven or air fryer.
Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's seasoned breading gives its mozzarella sticks an ultra-herby exterior that gets nice and crunchy. They have the best cheese pull of any sticks mentioned here, although some find the flavor a little over-the-top. They are a good option for a snack.
TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays' mozzarella sticks are gooey, stringy, and check all the boxes. They have a good cheese pull and well-seasoned breading. They also come with a marinara dipping sauce, which is a unique feature.
Market Pantry
Market Pantry's mozzarella sticks have a good, crunchy breading and a salty flavor. However, the cheese tastes a bit cheap, like string cheese, and they don't have a great cheese pull.
Other brands that make frozen mozzarella sticks include Petite Cuisine, Costco, Whole Foods, Sprouts, Kroger, Great Value, and Feel Good Foods.
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Best cooking methods
Frozen cheese sticks are a convenient snack, but cooking them properly is essential to ensure they're safe to eat and taste great. Here are some detailed instructions on how to cook frozen cheese sticks to perfection:
Oven-Baking
Baking frozen cheese sticks in the oven is a convenient and straightforward method. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for frozen cheese sticks, and 350 degrees Fahrenheit if they're refrigerated. Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch to avoid them sticking together. Bake for 10-15 minutes for frozen sticks or about 5 minutes for refrigerated ones, or until heated through.
Deep-Frying
Deep-frying is another popular method for cooking frozen cheese sticks. To ensure the cheese doesn't melt too quickly, freeze the breaded cheese sticks for at least two hours before frying. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cheese pull. Heat your preferred frying fat in a saucepan or a dedicated fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully place the frozen cheese sticks in the hot oil and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for several minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
Air-Frying
Air-frying is a modern alternative to deep-frying, offering a healthier option with less oil. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the frozen cheese sticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Lightly spray the cheese sticks with cooking oil to promote even browning. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Tips for Success
- Always follow the package instructions for the best results.
- For an extra crispy exterior, double-coat the cheese sticks in breading before freezing and frying.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavours and melts.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several options for frozen cheese sticks, with Farm Rich's mozzarella sticks being a popular choice. They are classic, reliable, and have a good balance of crunchiness and gooeyness. They are also widely available. Other options include Market Pantry, Trader Joe's, and TGI Friday's.
A good frozen cheese stick should have a crunchy exterior and a gooey, flavourful interior. The cheese should be milky, creamy, and fatty, with a good cheese pull. The breading should be seasoned well and have a slight saltiness to balance out the richness of the cheese.
Yes, there are gluten-free options available for frozen cheese sticks. Feel Good Foods offers gluten-free mozzarella sticks with a rice flour and tapioca starch breading. They are juicy and cheesy without being too greasy.
