Keto Mozzarella Sticks

Dive into Deliciousness with Keto Mozzarella Sticks

Indulge in a guilt-free snack with these Keto Mozzarella Sticks! Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional mozzarella sticks, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a crispy almond flour coating and gooey melted cheese inside, these mozzarella sticks are perfect for game nights, parties, or anytime you need a tasty snack. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of making these delicious treats, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook’s notes, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions. Let’s get frying and enjoy every bite of these savory delights!

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
• 1 cup almond flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for frying (such as avocado oil or coconut oil)
• Marinara sauce or low-carb tomato sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your coating mixture.
2. Coat the Cheese Sticks:
   • Dip each mozzarella stick half into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the almond flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Repeat the process for a double coating if desired, for extra crispiness.
3. Freeze the Sticks:
   • Place the coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for at least 1 hour. This will help the coating adhere better during frying.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat the cooking oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the cheese sticks.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • Carefully place the frozen cheese sticks into the hot oil in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
   • Remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the keto mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce or low-carb tomato sauce for dipping, if desired. Enjoy the crispy exterior and gooey melted cheese center!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Bake Instead of Fry:
  • For a healthier alternative, you can bake the coated cheese sticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• Add Spice:
  • Customize the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the almond flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with Cheese:
  • Mix it up by using different types of cheese such as cheddar, pepper jack, or brie for unique flavor variations.
• Make Ahead:
  • Prepare the coated cheese sticks ahead of time and freeze them for up to a week. Fry or bake them straight from the freezer whenever you’re ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour? A: Yes, you can substitute almond flour with coconut flour or ground pork rinds for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the carb count may vary.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during frying? A: Freezing the cheese sticks before frying helps to seal them and prevent the cheese from leaking out. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to create a crispy seal quickly.

Q: Can I make these mozzarella sticks in an air fryer? A: Yes, you can air fry the coated cheese sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Q: Are these keto mozzarella sticks suitable for meal prep? A: Absolutely! You can prepare a batch of coated cheese sticks ahead of time, freeze them, and fry or bake them as needed for a quick and satisfying snack.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

• Use Full-Fat Ingredients:
  • Opt for full-fat mozzarella string cheese sticks and eggs to keep the recipe keto-friendly.
• Check for Hidden Carbs:
  • Be mindful of the carb content in marinara sauce or low-carb tomato sauce if using for dipping. Look for sugar-free or keto-friendly options.
• Adjust Seasonings:
  • Ensure the seasoning blends used are free from added sugars and carb-heavy ingredients to keep the dish low-carb.

Satisfy your snack cravings with these irresistible Keto Mozzarella Sticks, featuring a crispy almond flour coating and gooey melted cheese center. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional mozzarella sticks, this recipe is sure to please. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable variations, you can enjoy these savory treats anytime, anywhere. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and delight in every cheesy bite guilt-free!