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Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings

Source of Recipe

From "Tasty Ultimate" by Buzzfeed, Inc.


Recipe Introduction

"If there ever was a couple that was fated in the stars, it was mozzarella sticks and onion rings. Mozzarella stick onion ring heaven at home is nigh. It's crucial to fry in batches so that the rings don't get crowded and are able to crisp up nicely."

List of Ingredients

â—¦ 2 large white onions (about 13 ounces each)
â—¦ 12 ounces deli-sliced low-moisture mozzarella cheese (about 16 slices)
â—¦ 2 cups all-purpose flour
â—¦ 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
â—¦ 3 cups plain bread crumbs
â—¦ Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
â—¦ Vegetable oil, for frying
â—¦ Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and store-bought marinara sauce, for serving


Recipe

Cut the onions crosswise into ½-inch-thick rings and separate the rings. Stack the mozzarella slices on top of each other in two large stacks, then cut the stacks into ½-inch-wide strips.

Working on a cutting board, place a smaller onion ring in the center of a larger one, creating concentric circles. Using as many mozzarella strips as necessary and cutting them to fit as needed, fill the gap between the rings with the cheese so that everything fits snugly together. You may need more than one layer of cheese, depending how large a gap is between the rings. Repeat with the remaining onion rings and cheese to make about 26 stuffed onion rings. Place the stuffed rings on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1 hour.

Place the flour, eggs, and bread crumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Season each with salt and pepper. Coat a frozen ring in the flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge the onion ring in the bread crumbs, pressing to coat completely. Return the ring to the baking sheet to dry. Repeat to coat the remaining onion rings. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and chill the rings until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 1 week.

Fill a large pot with vegetable oil to a depth of 2 inches and attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350° F.

Fry the onion rings two to three at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to fry them for too long to avoid having the cheese ooze out. Using tongs, transfer the rings to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain. Once all the rings are fried, scatter basil leaves over the top. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Makes 26 onion rings